Stunning Antique Japanese Champlevé Enamel Brass Dragon-Handled Vase / Ewer (c. 1920s ) A beautiful, highly decorative Japanese Champlevé enamel on heavy cast brass ewer, dating from the interwar period (circa 1920s). This substantial piece stands at approximately 11.5 to 12 inches (approx. 30 cm) tall, making it an impressive, eye-catching addition to any shelf, mantelpiece, or Asian art collection.
Design & Craftsmanship: The Technique: Unlike standard cloisonné, this piece features the Champlevé technique, where the enamel paste is pooled directly into deeply recessed cells cast into the thick brass body. You can feel the wonderful tactile quality of the raised brass borders running along the colorful scrolling lotuses and traditional floral bands.
Archaic Style: Crafted in an archaic bronze style, the vase features a heavily textured, geometric "cloud and thunder" background pattern stamped directly into the metal frame.
The Handle: The standout feature is a beautifully cast, heavy brass dragon/archaic beast head handle forming the spout/neck decoration, retaining a gorgeous, uncleaned golden patina.
Markings: The underside features a clear, authentic stamped block-letter "MADE IN JAPAN" mark directly in the cast metal, dating this perfectly to the 1920s–1930s export era.
Condition Report: This item is in good antique condition with character and genuine age. The heavy brass body has a wonderful, deep, unpolished natural patina. As is standard for early 20th-century hand-fired enamels, there is some visible pitting (tiny pinholes), minor firing lines, and surface wear to the enamel sections (please view close-up photos for exact details). The interior shows expected oxidization and age-related wear from historical use. No major structural damage, cracks to the metal, or large missing chunks of enamel. Please study all photos carefully as they form part of the description. Sold as seen.