Pair of Republic Period vases. China, mid-20th century

Pair of Republic Period vases. China, mid-20th century.
Bronze and cloisonné enamel. Carved wooden pedestal.
Measurements: 23 x 14 x 14 cm (vase); 4 x 12 x 12 x 12 cm (stand).

These Chinese imperial style vases stand out for their exceptional coloring and the use of the cloisonné enamel technique, offering a visual composition rich in symbolism. The body of the vases features a yellow five-clawed dragon, the traditional symbol of imperial power, which is dynamically depicted amidst stylized clouds. Intricate metallic thread work delimits the colored compartments. The black background features a "honeycomb" or cloud pattern in gold, providing a deep and luxurious visual texture.

The period of the Republic of China (1912-1949) represented a fascinating and convulsive transitional period for the decorative arts, marked by the fall of the imperial system and an unprecedented opening to Western modernity.