The elegant design of the grape clusters and leaves has been executed in a free and natural manner in colorful enamels within silver and gilded brass wires, and the naturalistic shading is superb. Thin tendrils formed with gilded wires curl out from the ends of the vines. The subtle variations in the color of the leaves have been created by the careful use of red, green and yellow enamels. There is an almost three-dimensional quality to the leaves, which is a testament to the remarkable technical skills of the enameller. The way in which the designs of the two vases mirror each other when placed side by side suggests that they were intended to be displayed as a pair.

The Ando Cloisonne Company, which was founded in 1880, is the oldest and largest corporation involved in manufacturing and dealing in shippo (cloisonne) in Japan. It has continued to produce fine cloisonné enamel wares up to the present day. Their products were first introduced to the world at the Chicago Exposition in 1893. Since then, the company has received many awards and prizes in numerous international expositions both in Japan and abroad, and in 1900 it was granted appointment to the Imperial Household.

CONDITION is perfect with no cracks, dents nor restoration. DIMENSIONS: 7 ½” (19 cm) high, 4” (10.2 cm) widest diameter.