A LARGE CEREMONIAL FOOD CONTAINER WITH SHIJUKARA

A VERY LARGE CLOISONNE ENAMEL CEREMONIAL FOOD CONTAINER AND COVER WITH SHIJUKARA
Japan, Meiji period (1868-1912)

The deep rounded sides rising from a short straight foot, the domed cover applied with a gilt-metal knob handle, the container and cover applied with gilt-silver rims. Worked in gilt wire of varying gauge and bright enamels, the exterior of the cover with two shijukara (Japanese tits) perched on gnarled flowering prunus branches above shrubs of leafy hydrangea against a pink ground, encircled by a wide band of alternating butterflies and flowerheads amid foliate scroll divided by shippo-tsunagi (linked-cash) patterns, repeated on the exterior of the container, above foliate scroll and stylized flowerheads against a pink ground. The interiors of the container and cover each with a large butterfly amid opulent flowers and leaves against a pale blue ground.

DIAMETER 36.8 cm

Condition: Good condition with minor wear, manufacturing-inherent flaws, some crackling, few minuscule nicks and light scratches, minor expected pitting, the cover slightly warped.
Provenance: British private collection.

The present food container was likely used to present cakes or sweets during festivities.