Chinese Longevity-Style Cloisonne & Gilt Vase

This decorative vase in the form of a Tibetan longevity vase or kalasha comprises a base and a lidded section of two parts, including a gilded lotus bud finial.

Most probably of copper, it is entirely decorated with cloisonné enamel work and gilding.

Cloisonné is a centuries-old technique for decorating metalwork objects that was first used in China. The decoration is formed by first adding compartments (cloisons in French) to the metal object by soldering or adhering metal wires or thin strips placed on their edges. The compartments were then filled powdered enamel or coloured glass that when fired in a kiln melt and fuse forming fields of colour which are kept separate by the soldered metal wires or strips.

The vase is in excellent condition.