Fine Meiji Cloisonné Enamel Charger Bamboo and Insects Attributed, Goto

A refined and highly decorative Japanese cloisonné enamel charger from the Meiji period, attributed to the workshop of Gotō Seizaburō—an artist associated with some of the most sophisticated and technically accomplished cloisonné produced in late nineteenth century Japan.

The surface is richly decorated with an elegant naturalistic composition of bamboo, flowering plants, and trailing vines, set against a warm reddish-brown enamel ground of notable depth and richness. Scattered throughout the composition are finely observed insects—including butterflies, a grasshopper, and dragonflies—each rendered with remarkable precision and delicacy. Their placement among the foliage introduces movement and seasonal nuance, reflecting the refined aesthetic sensibilities characteristic of high-quality Meiji period decorative arts.

Encircling the central field is a striking ornamental border composed of repeating stylized motifs in turquoise, cream, and deep red tones. This structured and rhythmic band provides a compelling visual contrast to the fluidity of the botanical composition, demonstrating a sophisticated interplay between geometric order and naturalistic freedom.

The technical execution is of a high order. The cloisonné wirework is fine and controlled, allowing for crisp delineation of forms, while the enamel application achieves subtle tonal variations across both the organic and decorative elements. The insects, in particular, reveal a confident and highly skilled hand, their forms animated with careful attention to both movement and detail.

Works of this type—combining richly colored grounds, intricate naturalistic decoration, and refined ornamental borders—are closely associated with the Gotō workshop. The present charger aligns with this tradition in both compositional structure and technical refinement. 18" diameter Good condition. No damage noted.