Early 20th Century Antique Chinese Cloisonne Round Covered Box With a Bronze Foo Dog FInial

Description

The metal art form of painting glass powder on designated areas on metal dated back to the Yuan Dynasty 13th … more The metal art form of painting glass powder on designated areas on metal dated back to the Yuan Dynasty 13th to 14th century. It was believed the Mongols brought the objects back from conquered Islamic regions. The technique became very popular during the Ming Dynasty (CE 1368 - 1644.) Sometime at the end of the 19th century when China participated in the World Expositions, it appeared that cloisonne enamel objects become an item of trade. This round covered box with a bronze Foo Dog finial was made around the turn of the century. The craftsmen thoroughly learned the technique and were able to produce well made, well designed objects. The design is the lotus flower, symbol of purity. The overall pattern includes the lotus flower, leaves and seed pods. The tiny metal wires are placed in lines of a wavy pattern, simulating movement of water in the lotus pond. The lotus flower theme is carried out on the side of the box as well. less