Cloisonné — A National Treasure-Level Craft

Cloisonné -- A National Treasure-Level Craft

　　Cloisonné, also known as filigree enamel, is a unique craft that combines ceramic and copper. The process of making cloisonné begins with forming a body from purple copper, then using flat, thin copper wires to affix patterns and designs onto the copper base. Next, different colored enamels are inlaid and filled into these patterns. After this step, the piece undergoes repeated firing, polishing, and gold plating. It can be said that the craftsmanship of cloisonné incorporates techniques from bronze work, porcelain production, and also draws extensively from traditional painting and carving arts, making it a culmination of traditional Chinese craftsmanship.　　Beijing is the birthplace of cloisonné technology. The oldest existing pieces of cloisonné date back to the Yuan Dynasty, which shows that the craft has a history of nearly a thousand years. Early cloisonné items were mostly imitations of ancient bronze vessels, especially those produced during the Xuande period of the Ming Dynasty, which were the most exquisitely crafted.　　By the time of the Jingtai era during the Ming Dynasty, around 1450 to 1456, artisans discovered a deep blue enamel material. Artifacts made with this material appeared dignified and luxurious, calm and generous. This is the “cloisonné” still in use today.　　Since then, there have not been any major breakthroughs in coloring, but rapid progress was made in the quality of copper materials—during the Qianlong period of the Qing Dynasty, more ductile pure copper was used as raw material. At this point, the craft of cloisonné finally reached its peak.　　 People in Beijing enjoy using cloisonné crafts to decorate their homes because they look exceptionally dignified and ornate. Trendy girls sometimes adorn themselves with charming cloisonné bracelets and earrings, and it’s common to give cloisonné items as gifts to one another.　　 For this reason, cloisonné can be found in shops of all sizes across Beijing. They range from large items such as ritual vessels for ancestral worship, hall screens, and benches or tables, to small ones like chopsticks, earrings, sugar jars, toothpick holders, and smoking sets. There are both art pieces intended for collection and appreciation, as well as everyday items for daily use. More interestingly, this craft adds artistic charm to everyday objects, while also giving art practical utility. (Beijing)