Spherical Jar with Flowers in a Basket

Description A covered jar in the shape of a globe on a pedestal. The decoration evokes a three-dimensional illusion of a net bag, tied with tassels at the top, swelling and overflowing with of a variety of flowers from different seasons (chrysanthemums, peonies, morning glories, lilies, etc.) The inside surface of the lid is enameled with flowers, leaves and butterflies. The lid has a gilt bronze finial in the shape of a closed chrysanthemum. The enamel is translucent and semi-opaque.

Exhibitions

• Japanese Cloisonne Enamels. The Walters Art Gallery, Baltimore. 1996-0.

Provenance Edwards Collection, Philadelphia, February 18, 1930, by purchase [considered by that collector to be "decidedly on of my banner pieces."]; Stephen W. Fisher, Baltimore [date and mode of acquisition unknown]; Walters Art Museum, 1995, by gift.

Inscriptions Unsigned

Credit Gift of Stephen W. Fisher, 1995