In this blog, we will look at the types of enamel that we see regularly. Enamelling is one of the most widely used techniques that adds to an item's decorative appeal. Commonly used on silver items, it is the process of fusing a thin layer onto a metal ground. There are numerous methods of doing this, with the process having been around for thousands of years. The three main ways of enamelling metal are cloisonné, plique-à-jour and Guilloché.
Cloisonné
First up in the different types of enamel is Cloisonné. This is one of the oldest enamelling techniques and was first created and used in the Far East. Examples can be found in Mesopotamia and Ancient Egypt dating to 3000 BC. Cloisonné is the handcrafted technique of using coloured glass paste and thin strips of wire to create an intricate design on a metal object. The ‘cloisons’ (French for partitions) is where this enamel process forms its name due to the use of wire to create such partitions on the metal. The item is then usually kiln-fired to ensure the paste is at the desired size (as heat shrinks the glass). This technique is mostly found on jewellery and smaller pieces.
Plique-à-jour
The next type of enamel we will look at is Plique-à-jour. A similar technique to cloisonné, but with no backing to the final product. This in turn allows light to shine through the translucent enamel, giving a ‘stained-glass’ effect. This technique has existed since the Byzantine Empire (500 AD) and got its name from the French term “letting in daylight”. This is a complex technique which was once lost around the 16th century. However, it was revived in the 19th century, when the revivalist movement took place. The complicated technique is not as commonly used as the others. That is because of its complex nature and high failure rate. With this in mind, it makes any item with this technique a sought-after item for a collector.
Guilloché
The final type of enamel we will talk about is Guilloché. This is a mechanical technique of enamelling. Using a machine to create an engine turned ground, a precise and intricate pattern is created on the metal. This can also be done by hand to create the same effect, but is far more time-consuming. Then a transparent enamel is placed over the design to create a clean finish. This technique dates to at least the 1770s. It is believed to have been named after a French engineer ‘Guillot’ who may have invented such machinery. Furthermore, this enamelling process is a luxurious one and has commonly been used by companies like Fabergé and Cartier to create such fineries like jewellery, watches, and more. Enamelled items are timeless collectables, with the three techniques adding vibrant character to every object they’re featured on.
Types of Enamel at Auction
Two cased sets of Danish silver-gilt & harlequin enamel coffee spoons.
Price Realised: £136.50
Silver, Novelties & Plated Ware | Thursday 30th May
Viewing times (ID required):
Birmingham
Wednesday 29th May 10:00 – 16:00
Thursday 30th May 08:30-10:00
Virtual viewings are available by request. Virtual viewings are the ultimate personal shopping experience. Using Zoom, you can ask us whatever you need to know to buy with confidence. Find out more here.
Chloe Hartley MA (Hons) | Junior Cataloguer
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