Chinese Black Cloisonné Miniature Vase – Dragon on Midnight Ground, 1940s–50s

A dragon on a 10cm vase. Whoever designed this had absolutely no interest in understatement, and we respect that entirely. The coiling dragon fills the body of this miniature cloisonné vaasje in golden yellow scales, set against a deep black enamel ground with swirling cloud motifs in teal and white. For something that fits in the palm of your hand, it has an extraordinary amount of presence.

Black ground cloisonné is rarer than the standard turquoise varieties, and the dragon motif — symbol of imperial power, strength, and good fortune — makes this a particularly characterful little piece. Turquoise enamelled base confirms Chinese origin. Fine gold wire cloisons throughout. Top condition.

• Origin: China
• Period: 1940s–50s
• Technique: Cloisonné enamel on copper
• Motif: Dragon on black ground with ruyi clouds
• Dimensions: 10 × 5 cm
• Weight: 93 grams
• Condition: Top — no chips, cracks, or repairs

WARNING: This is a dragon vase the size of a large apple. The dragon does not care about its size. Neither should you. Maison de L'oro suggests placing it somewhere it can be seen, because a dragon in a drawer is a waste of everyone's time.