Jiki-shippo literally, “porcelain-enamel,” is enamel work that is decorated on a porcelain body or foundation that has been fired at a high temperature. Also commonly referred to as totai shippo, which is a more general term used to include ceramic, earthenware or porcelain bases. “Tree-bark” cloisonne’ is a sub-category of Totai Cloisonne’, and is relatively fragile due to the delicate surfacing technique which will sometimes chip or crack around the edges because of the porcelain base.
The process of making Jiki-shippo cloisonné is rather complicated. It begins with the porcelain base formed into different shapes of vases, jars, and bowls, to which flat bronze wires are then affixed in decorative patterns. Enamels of different colors are applied to fill the cloisonné or hollows.
This tree bark cloisonné “ginger jar”, or globular vase, is decorated with a bird and flower motif worked primarily in shades of brown, green, orange and red enamels. The porcelain areas exhibit a creamy white finish. There is good attention to detail, i.e., the various flowers, petals, buds, and pistils worked in different shades of enamel, portions of the bird’s wings being finished with a matt surface in contrast to other polished or rough portions. There is a wonderful border with geometric details around the neck and bottom of the pieces.
Totai Cloisonne’ vases were only made for a short period of time, and were discontinued because of the difficulty in producing specimens that were not flawed or damaged in manufacture. Specimens of this quality are very difficult to find in excellent condition. This ginger jar has the original lid, which is rare, and shows slight cracking of the surface around the side edge. The body of the vase is near flawless with only one fine hair line crack only in cloisonné see last photo. Inside is flawless condition. Not signed.
Age: Meiji period.
Dimensions: 163mm h x 126mm dia.
Weight: 536g.