The history of the Kinkozan firm extends back to the 17th century from their founding in the Awata suburb of Kyoto. By the fifth generation, during the mid 19th century, highly decorated cloisonné pieces had been introduced to the array of wares produced at the Kinkozan studio. These elaborate and extravagant wares had little appeal on the domestic market but were specifically designed for export. Many Kinkozan pieces were exhibited in international exhibitions such as Chicago in 1873, Paris in 1900, London in 1910 and the 5th National Exhibition in Tokyo in 1925.

Dating to around 1880, this vase illustrates the application of cloisonné enamels to a ceramic body. This was a relatively short-lived innovation and was not very popular possibly because the enamels appeared dull (compared with cloisonné on a copper body) and were liable to cracking or crazing.