A fine cloisonne vase, Meiji period circa 1895, unsigned of exceptional quality, featuring songbirds amongst wisteria, hollyhock and irises on a perfect dark blue/black ground, silver rim and baseplate, diamond lappets in yellow, green and coloured highlights. Height 26 cm. Though unsigned, this fine work is possibly by the master Hayashi Kodenji. For similar pieces, see Victoria and Albert Museum collection, Japanese cloisonne, Irvine G, 2006