Rare Authentic 20th Century Cloisonné Tissue Box Cover - 10" x 5" - Immaculate Condition
Exquisite Cloisonné Artistry from the 20th Century
This rare and authentic cloisonné tissue box cover represents the pinnacle of traditional Chinese metalwork artistry. In immaculate condition, this stunning piece showcases the intricate enamel work and meticulous craftsmanship that has made cloisonné one of the most prized decorative art forms for centuries.
The Art of Cloisonné: Ancient Technique, Timeless Beauty
Cloisonné is an ancient enameling technique that dates back over 500 years in China. The process is extraordinarily labor-intensive and requires exceptional skill:
- Wire Work: Thin metal wires are bent and soldered onto a metal base to create compartments (cloisons)
- Enamel Application: Colored enamel paste is carefully applied into each compartment
- Firing: The piece is fired multiple times at high temperatures to fuse the enamel
- Polishing: After firing, the surface is ground smooth and polished to a brilliant finish
- Gilding: Exposed metal areas are often gilded with gold
Each piece requires weeks or even months to complete, with master artisans applying their expertise at every stage. The result is a luminous, jewel-like surface with rich colors and intricate patterns that will never fade.
Design & Features
This exceptional tissue box cover displays the hallmarks of fine 20th-century cloisonné work:
- Vibrant Blue Enamel: Rich cobalt blue interior creates a stunning contrast
- Floral Motifs: Traditional Chinese flowers and foliage in pink, coral, green, and cream
- Geometric Patterns: Intricate scrollwork and traditional Chinese design elements
- Gold Wire Detailing: Delicate brass or copper wire creates the characteristic cell structure
- Functional Art: Perfectly sized to hold standard tissue boxes while serving as decorative art
- Substantial Construction: Weighs 844 grams (1.86 lbs), confirming quality metalwork
Specifications
- Era: 20th Century
- Technique: Authentic cloisonné enamel on metal
- Dimensions: 10 inches x 5 inches
- Weight: 844 grams (1.86 lbs)
- Condition: Immaculate—no chips, cracks, or enamel loss
- Interior: Rich cobalt blue enamel
- Exterior: Multicolor floral and geometric designs
- Origin: Chinese cloisonné tradition
Why Cloisonné Remains Treasured
Cloisonné has been prized by collectors and connoisseurs for centuries because:
- Colors never fade—enamel is essentially colored glass fused to metal
- Each piece is unique due to the handmade process
- The technique requires years of training to master
- Fine examples represent hundreds of hours of skilled labor
- The jewel-like surface has an unmatched luminosity
- Authentic pieces become increasingly rare as traditional artisans retire
Immaculate Condition
This tissue box cover is in exceptional, immaculate condition:
- No Enamel Loss: All enamel cells intact with no chips or missing sections
- Brilliant Colors: Vibrant, unfaded enamel retains its original luster
- Intact Wire Work: All metal cloisons secure and undamaged
- Clean Interior: Pristine blue enamel interior
- Structural Integrity: No dents, bends, or damage to the metal base
Rarity & Collectibility
Authentic cloisonné tissue box covers of this quality and size are increasingly rare in today's market:
- Traditional Craftsmanship: Made using centuries-old techniques that are becoming rare
- Functional Decorative Art: Combines beauty with practical use
- Investment Quality: Fine cloisonné continues to appreciate in value
- Immaculate Condition: Pristine examples command premium prices
- Substantial Size: 10" x 5" makes this a significant display piece
- 20th Century Production: From an era when quality standards were exceptionally high
Display & Use
This versatile piece offers multiple display options:
- Functional Use: Place over a standard tissue box for elegant everyday luxury
- Decorative Display: Showcase as a standalone art object on shelves or tables
- Bathroom Elegance: Elevate powder room or bathroom décor
- Bedroom Accent: Add sophisticated color to vanity or nightstand
- Living Room Statement: Display on coffee table or console
- Collection Piece: Perfect addition to Asian art or cloisonné collections
Perfect For
- Collectors of Chinese decorative arts
- Cloisonné enthusiasts seeking pristine examples
- Those who appreciate traditional Asian craftsmanship
- Interior designers seeking authentic accent pieces
- Anyone wanting to elevate everyday objects into art
- Gift-giving for collectors or those with refined taste
A rare opportunity to acquire an authentic 20th-century cloisonné tissue box cover in immaculate condition. With its vibrant blue interior, intricate floral designs, substantial 844-gram weight, and perfect 10" x 5" proportions, this piece represents the finest in traditional Chinese enamel work. Functional art that brings centuries of craftsmanship into your daily life.