MEIJI PERIOD (LATE 19TH CENTURY), SIGNED NAGOYA HONDA SEIZO (WORKSHOP OF HONDA YOSABURO)

This large jar with lid, crafted in wired cloisonné enamel, is by Honda Yosaburo, who was active in Nagoya during the Meiji period under Suzuki, Honda & Co., a company focused on the export market. A distinctive feature of his work, evident in the present lot, is the sparkling brown background, often referred to as chakinseki (Goldstone color).
Like other makers from the Owari and Kyoto regions, Honda favored classic motifs such as dragons, phoenixes, and lions. However, he distinguished himself through his exceptionally refined detailing, which brought him recognition.
Few of Honda's works have survived to this day, and most are unsigned, making his pieces particularly rare.
For an identical example in this size, see Amazing Craftsmanship! From Meiji Kogei to Contemporary Art (Asno Laboratories, 2017), p 42, no. 1-17, in the collection of Kiyomizu Sannenzaka Museum.