An exquisite Chinese handicraft

Alluring cloisonne pot seen from different angles

The history of Cloisonne, a traditional enamelware, dates back to over 600 years. And Beijing is the cradle of Cloisonne technique. It is called the 'Blue of Jingtai' as blue is the dominant colour adopted for enameling. Cloisonne became prevalent during the reign of Jingtai (1426--1456) in the Ming dynasty, though the earliest extant Cloisonne was made in the Yuan Dynasty (1271-1368). During the Jingtai period handicraftsmen found a dark-blue enamel which gave Cloisonne a gorgeous, solemn look and is still used today. Designs of chrysanthemums, grapes, flying cranes, lions and dragons were added to the flowers and foliage of the earlier period. In the Qing Dynasty, larger pieces like screens, tables and chairs, even beds and couches were made from the enamel.

While visiting the famous Beijing Cloisonne Factory this correspondent got a vivid idea of this craftsmanship. The Beijing Cloisonne Factory, established in 1958, employs a staff of around 2,000 in both the mass production of consumer items and the creation of personalised art forms such as vases, boxes, lamp stands, ashtrays and dishes, as well as jewellery and other trinkets that are popular today.

An exquisite piece of Cloisonné must have colours that are moist and glossy, fresh and bright, a body that is substantive and sturdy, a wire inlay that is neat and well-proportioned, and gold plating that glitters. Its delicate appearance and splendid patterns should emit a classical warmth that rivets the gaze, and leaves one too infatuated to part with it. The making of Cloisonne integrates bronze and porcelain-working skills, traditional painting and etching. It is the pinnacle of traditional Chinese handicraft.