Rare Japanese Cloisonné Enamel Vase with Kingfisher and Reeds, Hayashi Kodenji

A Rare Japanese Meiji Period Lobed Silver-Wire Cloisonné Enamel Vase with Kingfisher and Reeds, Attributed to the Hayashi Kodenji Studio

A rare and elegant Japanese cloisonné enamel vase from the Meiji period, attributed to the distinguished Hayashi Kodenji studio, celebrated for its mastery of refined silver-wire technique and innovative vessel forms. The vase is of lobed baluster shape, its scalloped body presenting a sculptural silhouette that reflects both technical virtuosity and aesthetic refinement.

Against a lustrous midnight-black enamel ground, the central decoration depicts a kingfisher poised upon a gnarled branch amid tall reeds and wildflowers at the water’s edge. The bird’s plumage is defined in the finest silver wire and filled with jewel-like enamels in turquoise, chestnut, white, and green, achieving a remarkable degree of naturalism and lifelike vibrancy. Slender reeds rise gracefully in graduated shades of green and blue, while bright orange blossoms enliven the base of the composition. Scattered silver-wire dots across the lower ground suggest rippling water, a subtle device that enhances the scene’s painterly atmosphere.

The borders of the vase are richly ornamented. Around the neck, a bold band of stylized tomoe medallions on a scrolling ground provides a striking decorative contrast, while the foot is framed with alternating lozenge motifs in blue, white, and green enamels. These formal patterns, executed with equal precision, balance the serenity of the central naturalistic design.

The lobed form itself is particularly significant: unlike standard ovoid examples, lobed vases demanded exceptional skill to achieve even curvature and flawless enamel application over concave and convex planes. The Hayashi Kodenji studio was among the very few workshops capable of consistently producing such technically challenging pieces, further supporting this attribution.

Comparable works attributed to the Hayashi Kodenji studio, featuring lobed bodies and bird-and-reed motifs, are preserved in both museum and important private collections worldwide. Their rarity and superb craftsmanship make them highly sought after by connoisseurs of Japanese enamels.

This vase exemplifies the sophistication of Meiji-period cloisonné at its very finest — combining an innovative form, flawless execution, and a serene naturalistic subject. A superb and museum-worthy work from the celebrated Hayashi Kodenji studio.

10" high x 5" diameter

Very good condition, no damaged noted.