Diameter:9.9inch

Origin:Beijing

Craft:Beijing is the cradle of cloisonne technique. The earliest and existing cloisonne is the product in Yuan dynasty, which we know it has nearly thousands-year history already. The Same as picture cloisonne were most of the archaized bronze ware, especially produced during the Xuande period of Ming dynasty is fine.

Cloisonne has another name inlaid enamel which is the unique technique of the combination of porcelain and bronze. We may say, the technique of cloisonne is used not only the bronze crafts, but also the porcelain crafts, meanwhile, fetching in plenty of traditional and carving technique, which is the combination of Chinese traditional arts.

Procedure of Cloisonne-making:

1. Base-hammering

This is, in fact, the work of a coppersmith. As copper is easily hammered and stretched, it is employed to make the body of Cloisonne. A sound judgment is required because this expertise determines the uniformity of thickness and weight. In contrast to the work of a coppersmith which is ended when the article is shaped, base-hammering is just the beginning of the process for making of Cloisonne.

2. Filigree Soldering

The second step can be compared to embroidery, as both require great care and high creativity. The only difference is that instead of embroidering on silk, the Cloisonne craftsman adheres copper strips onto the copper body. 1/16 inch in diameter, these strips are shaped into what the artisan requires, usually a complicated but complete pattern. With a blueprint in mind, the craftsman exerts his experience and imagination in setting the copper strips on the body.

3. Enamel Filling

Then comes enamel filling, which requires the application of such basic elements as boric acid, saltpeter and alkaline. Due to the different minerals added, Cloisonne appears different in color. Usually one with an excess of iron will turn gray; with uranium, yellow; with chromium, green; with bronze, blue; with zinc, white; and with gold or iodine, red. After the ores have been ground into fine powder and contained in plates, workers apply them to the small compartments separated by filigrees.

4. Enamel Firing

As you put the article to the crucible - in a moment the copper body will turn red. When firing, re-fillings are repeatedly required as the enamel in the small compartments will sink slightly after firing.

5. Polishing

To make the filigree and the filled compartments even, the artisan must then polish the half finished products again and again. First emery is used. Then the whole piece re-fired again and then a whetstone is employed for polishing. In the end, a piece of hard carbon is rubbed on the surface areas in order that the article will obtain some luster on the surface.

6. Gilding

Lastly, the article is placed in a bath of gold or silver fluid to which is applied changing electric current so as to keep the Cloisonne free from rust. Finally another electroplating and a slight polish are demanded for the exposed parts of the filigree and the metal fringes of the article.

Artistic & Historical Background:   Listen to it

The Beijing Palace enamel crane plate is a fine work of art that showcases the unique charm of traditional Chinese craftsmanship and culture.

This piece is renowned for its rich spiritual connotations, exquisite techniques, and unique historical significance.

Firstly, the Beijing Palace enamel crane plate demonstrates the superb level of traditional Chinese craftsmanship.

Enameling is an ancient ceramic technique that involves coating the surface of a piece with a layer of metal or glass as a protective layer, then painting designs on the protective layer before firing it to a certain temperature to separate it from the ceramic.

This process requires delicate manual skills and extensive experience, resulting in enamel artworks with high artistic and collectible value.

Secondly, the Beijing Palace enamel crane plate embodies the rich connotations of traditional Chinese culture.

The crane symbolizes longevity, good fortune, and elegance in Chinese culture.

The lifelike image of the crane in this artwork is meticulously crafted, demonstrating the artist's deep understanding and respect for traditional culture.

At the same time, the image of the crane conveys a tranquil and graceful attitude towards life, which is appealing.

In addition, the Beijing Palace enamel crane plate has significant historical significance.

It reflects the prosperity and grandeur of palace life during the Qing Dynasty.

During this period, enameling technology experienced tremendous development and became one of the royal art forms.

As a precious relic of the Qing Dynasty palace, this artwork bears witness to historical changes and cultural heritage.

In conclusion, the Beijing Palace enamel crane plate is an artwork with rich spiritual connotations, exquisite techniques, and important historical significance.

It not only showcases the superb level of traditional Chinese craftsmanship but also embodies the rich connotations and historical background of traditional Chinese culture.

For those who appreciate cultural arts, this is a valuable heritage worth collecting and appreciating.

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