Description This Japanese cloisonné enamel vase by Ando Jubei is of cylindrical form and dates to the late Meiji period, circa 1890. The body is finished in a deep green enamel ground and decorated with bamboo in varying tones, worked in silver wire cloisonné. The design is restrained and balanced, with the bamboo extending vertically across the surface, allowing the quality of the enamel ground and wirework to stand out. The vase is constructed using the moriage technique, where areas of enamel are built up in slight relief, giving subtle depth to the decoration when viewed in the light. The surface retains a smooth finish with gentle variation in tone across the ground. The rim is mounted in silver, and the underside is finished in a dark brown glaze bearing the Ando workshop mark formed in silver wire. View the full Antique Japanese Collection. MEASUREMENTS 31 High x 12 Diameter (12.2 x 4.72 Inches) CONDITION The vase displays visible cracking to the enamel body as shown in the images. Whilst we do not typically offer damaged pieces, this example has been retained due to the rarity of moriage cloisonné work of this type. Pieces constructed using this technique are seldom encountered, particularly with this level of restraint and quality of ground. It has therefore been made available as a study piece, suitable for collectors interested in the technique, the Ando workshop, or Meiji period cloisonné. Who was Ando Jubei? Ando Jubei (1876-1956) was a leading Japanese cloisonné artist based in Nagoya. During the late Meiji period, he was one of the principal figures in the Nagoya enamelling industry alongside Hayashi Kodenji. Working at a time often regarded as the peak of Japanese cloisonné production, Ando was known for producing high quality works, including presentation pieces commissioned by the Imperial Household for diplomatic use. His work was exhibited internationally, including at the Japan British Exhibition of 1910, and examples are held in major museum collections. The Ando Cloisonné Company continued production beyond his lifetime, maintaining the workshop’s reputation. Who are the ANDO CLOISONNÉ COMPANY? The Ando Cloisonné Company is one of the most established enamel workshops in Japan, based in Nagoya within the historic Owari province, a major centre of cloisonné production. Founded in the late 19th century by the Ando family, the company developed during the peak period of Japanese cloisonné, supplying both the domestic market and export trade. Under Ando Jubei and his associates, the workshop produced a wide range of enamel wares, including pieces commissioned by the Imperial Household for presentation. The company exhibited internationally and gained recognition for the quality and consistency of its work. Production continued into the 20th century, and the Ando workshop remains one of the few traditional cloisonné makers still active today. Examples by the Ando company are held in major museum collections, including the Victoria and Albert Museum. For further information see our Makers and Retailers profile on the Ando Cloisonné Company. WHAT IS CLOISONNE? Cloisonné is a traditional decorative art that involves applying thin metal wires to form compartments (cloisons) on a metal surface, which are then filled with colourful enamel. After multiple firings and polishings, the result is a vibrant, glass-like finish with intricate designs. The technique has roots in ancient China but was perfected in Japan during the Meiji period (1868–1912), often referred to as the Golden Age of Cloisonné. Japanese artists developed advanced methods such as musen shippō(wireless cloisonné) and shōtai shippō (plique-à-jour), creating seamless, naturalistic, and even translucent effects. Highly prized for its precision, artistry, and beauty, Japanese cloisonné is regarded as one of the finest forms of enamel craftsmanship in the world and remains highly collectible today. For further information see our article The Art of Japanese Cloisonné: History, Craftsmanship, and the Golden Age. WHAT IS THE JAPANESE MEIJI PERIOD (1868-1912)? The Meiji era marked Japan’s transformation into a modern nation and a golden age of decorative arts. With the end of samurai rule and Japan’s opening to the West, artisans produced works of exceptional quality for both domestic and international audiences. Supported by the government through world fairs and Imperial commissions, Japanese lacquerware, cloisonné, satsuma ceramics, bronzes, and ivory carvings reached collectors worldwide. Many leading artists of the time, including Makuzu Kozan and Namikawa Yasuyuki, were honoured as Imperial Household Artists, ensuring the Meiji period remains one of the most celebrated eras of Japanese art. For further information please see our article Japanese Meiji Period: Art, Collecting, and Cultural Transformation. What is Moriage? Moriage is a decorative technique used in Japanese cloisonné and ceramics where enamel or slip is built up in layers to create a raised surface. The result is a subtle relief effect that adds depth to the design when viewed in the light. In cloisonné work, moriage is achieved by carefully applying additional enamel within the wire boundaries, allowing areas of the decoration to stand slightly proud of the ground. The technique was used during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, particularly in pieces made for export. WHY BUY FROM JACKSONS ANTIQUE? At Jacksons Antique, we are a small family-run business with over 10 years of experience in the fine antiques trade. We are proud members of LAPADA (The Association of Art & Antiques Dealers) and CADA (The Cotswold Art & Antique Dealers’ Association), trusted by collectors, interior designers, and private clients worldwide. Every piece we offer is individually sourced, carefully researched, and fully authenticated, accompanied by a certificate of authenticity. We provide insured worldwide shipping and secure checkout via Stripe, a global payments provider trusted by companies including Amazon and Booking.com. With every order, you will receive our latest printed product guide, a certificate of authenticity, and full tracking details so you can follow your item from dispatch to delivery. For complete peace of mind, we also offer a no-hassle money-back guarantee. We provide flexible layaway options and a level of personal service that larger retailers simply cannot match. When you buy from Jacksons Antique, you are supporting sustainable, environmentally conscious collecting and helping to preserve historic objects rather than contribute to mass production. Sign up to our free monthly newsletter to enjoy ten percent off your first online purchase.
