Maker / Brand: Kokusui Title of Work: Cloisonné Vase with Grape Motif OPENING HOOK: An exquisite burst of verdant vitality captured in lustrous enamel, this Kokusui cloisonné vase is a testament to the enduring artistry of Japanese craftsmanship. Its radiant grape motif, rendered with remarkable depth and color, invites a closer look, promising to be a focal point in any discerning collection. Artistic Background, Cloisonné (Shippo) TIME-TRAVEL PARAGRAPH: Step back into the Meiji era, a period of profound artistic innovation and international exchange, when Japanese cloisonné, known as shippo, captivated the world. While its roots trace back to ancient techniques, Japanese artisans refined shippo into an art form of unparalleled delicacy and brilliance. Imagine the skilled hands in a Kyoto workshop, careful bending fine silver or copper wires to form intricate cells, then filling each with vibrant enamel powders before firing the piece multiple times in a kiln. The air would hum with focused energy, the scent of minerals and fire ever-present, as layers of color slowly fused into a luminous, glass-like surface. This exacting process, passed down through generations, transformed humble metal into dazzling works of art, highly prized by both imperial courts and Western connoisseurs. Design and Technique, Cloisonné (Shippo) IMAGE-DRIVEN PARAGRAPH: The surface of this Kokusui vase is a canvas of ethereal beauty, where the pale, almost translucent sky-blue enamel at the shoulder gently transitions to a pristine white at the base, creating a sense of boundless space. Across this serene backdrop, a bountiful cluster of grapes emerges, each berry a plump sphere of vibrant lime green, imbued with a lifelike translucency that suggests sun-ripened sweetness. The surrounding vine leaves are rendered in nuanced shades of deep forest green, slate gray, and subtle ochre, their delicate veins intricately detailed. This is the hallmark of fine shippo: the precise definition achieved by the delicate wirework, invisible beneath the smooth, polished enamel, allowing the colors to sing with unmatched clarity and depth. The grape motif itself, a symbol of abundance and prosperity, is presented with a fresh, naturalistic elegance that makes the design timeless. Form and Aesthetic Qualities Silhouette: Its elegant ovoid form tapers gracefully from a stable, gently rounded base to a refined, slightly flared mouth. The continuous curve creates a harmonious, pleasing profile that feels balanced and substantial in the hand, crowned by a gleaming silver-plated rim that adds a touch of understated luxury. Surface: The lustrous, glassy surface of the enamel is cool and smooth to the touch, a testament to countless hours of firing and polishing. The colors are deeply saturated yet luminous, catching the light with a soft, inviting glow, showcasing the careful detail of the grape and vine motif without interruption. Presence: Despite its modest size, this vase commands attention with its vibrant yet refined aesthetic. It possesses an understated elegance that allows it to hold its own as a striking centerpiece, drawing the eye with its luminous colors and intricate detail, yet never overpowering its surroundings. It radiates a quiet confidence, a piece of art that speaks volumes through its craftsmanship. Collectible Value Rarity: Fine examples of Japanese shippo, especially those from established makers like Kokusui, are becoming increasingly difficult to acquire on the international market. The labor-intensive nature of the craft means production was always limited, and many older pieces are now held in private collections or museums, making new discoveries a rare event. Versatility: This vase's timeless design and sophisticated color palette allow it to transcend stylistic boundaries. It would be equally at home gracing a minimalist contemporary interior, adding a touch of vibrant artistry, or complementing a more traditional setting, serving as a subtle nod to classic Japanese aesthetics. Its size makes it perfect for a small bouquet or as a standalone sculptural object. Heritage: Owning a Kokusui cloisonné piece is to possess a tangible link to a rich artistic heritage, a craft that embodies patience, precision, and profound beauty. It represents not just an object of decoration, but a piece of Japan's cultural legacy, a testament to the enduring skill and aesthetic sensibility of its artisans, carrying with it stories of tradition and innovation. CLOSING: As surviving examples of such exquisite craftsmanship continue to appreciate in value and scarcity, this Kokusui cloisonné vase offers a remarkable opportunity for the discerning collector to acquire a piece of enduring beauty and significant artistic merit, a true jewel of Japanese decorative art. Shipping from Japan with Tracking Number & Insurance. I promise fast shipping via FedEx or DHL as soon as possible! Import duties, taxes and charges are not included in the item price or shipping charges. These charges are the buyer's responsibility. These charges are normally collected by the delivering freight (shipping) company or when you pick the item up - do not confuse them for additional shipping charges.