Antique Japanese Meiji Period Cloisonné Hō-ō Phoenix Goldstone Charger 

Made in Japan c. 1880-1900.

Approximately  2 1/2" High x 14 1/4" Diameter.

Large and richly decorated antique Japanese cloisonné enamel charger dating to the Meiji period, circa 1880–1900.

The charger centers a dramatic hō-ō (Japanese phoenix) amid flowering branches and flowing ribbon-like forms, surrounded by an exceptionally dense arrangement of floral, geometric and foliate medallions on a deep cobalt-blue ground.

The decoration is executed in polychrome cloisonné enamel with extensive fine wirework.

Particularly noteworthy are the aventurine/goldstone-style metallic-flecked enamel accents: sparkling gold-colored inclusions appear throughout the red-orange reserves, while darker enamel passages display contrasting copper-toned flecking. These varied enamel effects give the surface considerable depth and brilliance.

The central phoenix is composed of numerous individually wired cells in turquoise blue, green, pink, white, yellow, deep blue, brown and iron-red enamels. It is framed by a dark scrolling border punctuated with white chrysanthemum-like blossoms. The broad cobalt field beyond is arranged with alternating circular floral medallions and shaped foliate reserves, together with scattered small blossoms.

The reverse is equally distinctive, finished in turquoise-blue enamel and covered with a repeating wired overlapping fish-scale pattern. The charger retains an exposed metal rim and raised circular foot ring, with a hanging loop for wall display. No maker's signature or workshop mark has been identified. 

Excellent antique condition with age-appropriate surface wear, minor enamel irregularities and small areas of pitting consistent with age and manufacture. No major enamel loss or restoration is apparent from examination. Please review photographs carefully as they form an important part of the condition description.