193 - A PAIR OF VERY LARGE (74 CM) AND FINE MIDNIGHT-BLUE-GROUND CLOISONNÉ ENAMEL ‘BLOSSOMING CHRYSANTHEMUMS’ VASES

A PAIR OF VERY LARGE (74 CM) AND FINE MIDNIGHT-BLUE-GROUND CLOISONNÉ ENAMEL ‘BLOSSOMING CHRYSANTHEMUMS’ VASES Japan, c. 1900, Meiji period (1868-1912) Superbly crafted, each monumental baluster body supported on a short circular foot, rising in a gently swelling profile to rounded shoulders and an elegantly waisted neck with a widely flaring, trumpet-shaped mouth, the mouth and foot fitted with gilt metal mounts. The exterior exquisitely decorated in vivid polychrome enamels within delicate silver wire against a deep, lustrous midnight-blue ground, depicting luxuriant sprays of chrysanthemums (kiku) in full bloom, their densely layered petals rendered in delicate shades of rose pink, ivory, and pale yellow, interspersed with smaller blossoms and tightly furled buds. The flowers are borne on gracefully arching stems with finely articulated, serrated leaves in subtly graduated shades of green and gray, the richly detailed floral compositions extending across the bodies and ascending toward the necks. The two vases present harmoniously balanced, complementary designs, their brilliant enamels contrasting beautifully with the remarkably rich blue ground. HEIGHT 74 cm (each) WEIGHT 5.1 & 5.4 kg Condition: Exceptionally fine condition, particularly remarkable for a matching pair of such monumental dimensions. No visible cracks, enamel losses, or signs of restoration, including under UV examination. Only very minor wear and expected manufacturing irregularities. The extraordinary state of preservation is especially noteworthy, as large Meiji-period cloisonné enamel vessels frequently exhibit cracking, chipping, losses, and subsequent restorations. Auction comparison: Compare a related pair of monumental cloisonné enamel vases, similarly decorated with chrysanthemums against a dark-blue ground, dated to the Meiji period, 147.3 cm high (each), at Freeman's, Asian Arts, 9 April 2024, Philadelphia, lot 207 (sold for USD 17,780 or approx. EUR 17,000 converted and adjusted for inflation at the time of writing). Compare a related large cloisonné enamel vase, dated to the late 19th century, 92.2 cm high, at Bonhams, Fine Japanese Works of Art, 19 March 2013, New York, lot 2419 (sold for USD 15,625 or approx. EUR 20,000 converted and adjusted for inflation at the time of writing).