Differences between Chinese and Japanese standard cloisonne objects, early 20th century.

Two of my standard cloisonne vases, 4 inches tall black Japanese and 6 inches tall white Chinese vases, C1910. Not marked.

Size: Chinese pieces are usually larger and heavier.

Interior: Chinese has no enamel, Japanese often green enamel because they need the added reinforcement to their thinner metal body.

Wires: Hand applied by both, with uneven shapes. Chinese is consistently the same design and wire size, Japanese like mix metals and you will find variations of copper, width, twisted and straight.

Rims: Chinese often have a 'ruyie' upper rim border, inspired by the Imperial ruyie scepter. Japanese use plain small circle bands on both rims and sometimes mid body.

Decors: Traditional Chinese symbolic motifs such as flowers from the 4 seasons, or the dragons with flaming pearl in the sky. Japan is more varied in topic, often have garment or accessory objects, and circles with motifs which are inspired by their family crest - the mon. They can also use the Imperial mons, the Emperor's chrysantemum and the Empress's paulownia flowers. Japan has also evolved their enamels to a translucent color with flecks of silver or copper called sunstone.

ID: Chinese sometimes has a CHINA impressed in the gilded copper bottom rim, Japanese is often unmarked, or has an auspicious symbol of good fortune, the more well known master's studio will have their logo or signature in script etched or impressed on the metal base.