Vintage Japanese Meiji Style Cloisonné Enamel and Bronze Champlevé Vase with Dragon Handles
Unbranded (Japanese/Chinese Export) · Art & Decor > Vases & Asian Collectibles
Era / Decade
Mid-20th Century (1940s-1960s) Showa Era
Material
Bronze/Brass base metal with champlevé and cloisonné enamel work. Features heavy metal construction and wire-separated enamel pigments.
Condition
Fair to Good. There is visible pitting in the enamel, surface corrosion/patina on the bronze base and handles, and some potential hairline cracking or 'crazing' in the middle decorative band.
Demand Level
Moderate. Chinoiserie decor remains a steady trend, though condition issues slightly limit the top-tier collector market.
Resale Value
Estimated Resale Value
$45.00 - $85.00 (Low-Mid-High)
Estimated Retail Value
$150.00 - $225.00 (comparable high-quality modern reproductions)
Comparable Sales
Similar Japanese champlevé vases of this size and condition typically sell on eBay for $50-$75 plus shipping. Pristine, older Meiji-period examples can exceed $300, but the visible wear here places it in the decorative vintage category.
Description
Stunning vintage Asian-inspired metal vase featuring intricate champlevé enamel work. The piece displays a traditional bird (ho-oh phoenix) and floral motif in shades of teal, mustard, and white. It is accented by ornate dragon-head handles and archaic geometric fretwork bands. Stands approximately 10-12 inches tall with a weighted base.
Key Features
Detailed dragon handles, traditional phoenix/floral symbolism, heavy bronze-tone construction, and popular Champlevé technique which is highly collectible for Chinoiserie enthusiasts.
Authenticity Indicators
Authentic vintage export piece. The irregular wire work and hand-filled enamel sections indicate it is not a modern 3D-printed or mass-stamped replica. Confidence Level: High.
Flaws to Note
Significant surface wear, oxidation on the metal handles and rim, and small chips or 'pitting' in the enamel. The interior likely has oxidation from water use if previously used for flowers.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
eBay (best for reaching global collectors), Etsy (if marketed as vintage home decor), or Facebook Marketplace (to avoid shipping fragile/heavy metal).
Selling Tips
Use keywords like 'Meiji Style', 'Champlevé', 'Dragon Handles', and 'Chinoiserie'. Take close-up photos of the dragon heads and the bottom of the vase. Do not attempt to shine or polish the enamel, as harsh chemicals can damage the old pigments.