Vintage Chinese White Cloisonné Enamel Bird & Floral Trinket Box

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A jewel-like Chinese cloisonné covered jar featuring stunning sunny yellow enamel accented with brilliant turquoise blue, coral-red and pink blossoms, … Read more A jewel-like Chinese cloisonné covered jar featuring stunning sunny yellow enamel accented with brilliant turquoise blue, coral-red and pink blossoms, and fresh green foliage. Delicate metallic fretwork fills the yellow background, creating a richly patterned surface that rewards a closer look.

Cloisonné requires remarkable patience and skilled handwork. Fine metal wires are shaped into outlines and attached to the metal body, creating tiny compartments called cloisons. These partitions keep the colored enamel mixtures—finely powdered glass mixed with liquid—separate before firing in a kiln. Filling and firing are typically repeated to build up the enamel, followed by careful grinding and polishing to reveal the intricate design.

From the geometric background to the individual petals and leaf veins, the many small compartments illustrate the considerable labor involved in creating such a piece.

The cylindrical form has a gently domed removable lid, warm brass-colored rims, and a vivid turquoise enamel interior and underside. A beautiful splash of color for a bookshelf, dressing table, or collection of decorative objects.
Chinese, probably early to mid-20th century. Maker unknown.

Dimensions: 3 inches in diameter × 4 inches high. See less