An Exquisite Large Pair of Meiji Period Cloisonné Enamel Plates with Tsubas

An Exquisite and Large Pair of Meiji Period Japanese Cloisonné Enamel Plates with Tsuba Fittings and Nature Scenes, circa 1885 This exquisite pair of large Meiji period Japanese cloisonné plates is a masterful display of artistic elegance and technical prowess, embodying the rich cultural heritage of the era. Each plate is adorned with a striking combination of black and blue ground enamel, creating a dramatic backdrop that highlights the intricate designs encased within. Surrounding the plates are beautifully crafted tsuba sword fittings, each filled with vibrant and meticulously detailed scenes depicting the natural world. The plates feature a dynamic array of fish, animals, flowers, butterflies, and delicate cherry blossoms, each rendered in a stunning palette of colors, showcasing the remarkable skill of the artisans. In the center of one plate, a bird is captured in mid-flight, gracefully soaring over a lush garden, exuding a sense of serenity and harmony with nature. The other plate presents a dynamic scene of a bird diving into a stream, having just caught a shrimp, illustrating a moment of life and movement frozen in time. These plates are not just decorative objects but exquisite works of art that capture the beauty and vitality of the natural world. Their impressive size, combined with the complexity and depth of the cloisonné work, make them a rare and valuable addition to any collection or exhibition, destined to be a focal point of admiration. 15.5″ diameter Very good condition. A masterful pair of plates. Exhibition quality -A truly exceptional and museum example. Period: 19th CenturyStyle: Meiji (Of the Period)Origin: JapanDiameter: 15.5 in (39.37 cm)Height: 15.5 in (39.37 cm)Date of Manufacture: C.1895Materials and Techniques: Enamel