Vintage brass and enamel small pin / decorative dish probably indian. This very decorative dish has the initials VLB on it. Probably indian. Some age related wear.
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16 cm wide handle to handle
9 cm depth 2 cm height
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Enameling, the process of fusing colored glass to metal of fusing colored glass to metal, has a rich history dating back to the 13th century BC, with evidence found in Cyprus. The technique evolved over time, with different cultures like ancient Egypt, Greece, Rome, and China developing their own enameling styles. Notable enamel techniques include cloisonné, champlevé, and plique-à-jour.
Early Origins and Evolution:
Ancient Times:
Enameling emerged in ancient civilizations like Egypt, where it was used on ceremonial objects, amulets, and jewelry. The Mycenaeans and Minoans also crafted intricate enamel pieces.
Mycenaean Period:
The earliest known enamelled objects were found in Cyprus during the Mycenaean period (13th century BC), specifically six gold rings.
Spread of the Technique:
Enameling spread to other regions, including Greece, Rome, and China, where it was incorporated into various art forms and decorative items.
Byzantine and Islamic Influences:
In Europe, the Byzantine style of enameling, particularly cloisonné, became influential, while Islamic art also contributed to the development of enamel techniques.
Medieval Period:
During the Middle Ages, enameling reached a peak of popularity, with the French city of Limoges becoming renowned for its champlevé enamelwork.
Renaissance and Later:
Enameling continued to be used in the Renaissance and later periods, with various techniques like champlevé, plique-à-jour, and painted enamel becoming popular.
Arts and Crafts Movement:
The Arts and Crafts movement in the late 19th and early 20th centuries saw a renewed interest in enameling, with artists using it as a means of artistic expression.
Techniques and Styles:
Cloisonné:
Involves creating compartments with thin metal wires, which are then filled with enamel powder and fired.
Champlevé:
Enamel is applied to metal surfaces that have been cut or engraved to form shallow recesses.
Plique-à-jour:
A transparent enamel technique where the enamel is applied to the surface of the metal, allowing the light to shine through.
Basse-taille:
A technique developed in the 13th and 14th centuries where the metal is carved into various levels of relief to create a three-dimensional effect.
Enamel in Different Cultures:
Ancient Egypt: Enameling was used to decorate ceremonial objects, amulets, and jewelry.
Greece: The Greeks used enamel inlays on sculptures.
Celts: The Celts also used enamel on metal objects, as seen in the Battersea Shield and the Staffordshire Moorlands Pan.
China: Cloisonné enamelwork was well-established in China during the 13th and 14th centuries.
Byzantium: Byzantine enameling, particularly cloisonné, was highly influential in Europe.
Modern Applications:
Enamelware: Enamelware, where enamel is fused to a metal base, is still used for cookware and decorative items.
Jewellery: Enameling continues to be used in jewelry, with various techniques and styles being employed.
Art: Artists continue to explore enamel as a medium for artistic expression.