Cloisonne Vases Appraisal

Pair of Antique Asian Cloisonné Vases

This is a pair of antique or vintage cloisonné vases, exhibiting intricate enamel work on a metal body, likely copper or bronze. Each vase stands approximately 6-8 inches tall, with a bulbous body that tapers towards a flared neck and a narrow base. The primary color scheme is a vibrant cobalt blue, serving as the background for delicate floral and butterfly motifs. The upper shoulder of each vase features a band of intricate green enamel work, adorned with small white and pink blossoms. Below this, there's another band with segmented patterns in shades of blue, teal, and gold, indicative of stylized cloud or wave patterns. The main body of the vases showcases a scattering of colorful flowers in white, pink, and red, along with several butterflies in various hues like yellow, blue, and brown. The cloisonné technique is evident in the fine metal wires (cloisons) that create the outlines for the enamel cells, which are then filled with colored vitreous paste and fired. The surface appears to have a slight aged patina, consistent with antique items, and the metal edges of the rim and base show some wear, revealing the underlying metal. There are no immediately visible chips or cracks in the enamel, suggesting good preservation, but detailed inspection would be needed to confirm. The craftsmanship suggests a high level of detail and patience. While the exact origin (Japanese or Chinese) is not definitively discernible from the image, both traditions are well-known for producing high-quality cloisonné. The overall aesthetic points towards an early to mid-20th-century period, but could potentially be older depending on closer examination of the base and any hidden marks. The slightly uneven surface and subtle variations between the two vases suggest handmade production.