Material:cloisonne

Origin:Beijing

Cloisonne is a unique art form that originated in Beijing during the Yuan Dynasty (1271 - 1368). In the period titled 'Jingtai' during the Ming Dynasty (1368 - 1644), the emperor who was very much interested in bronze-casting techniques, improved the color process, and created the bright blue that appealed to the Oriental aesthetic sense. After a processing breakthrough, most articles for his daily use were made of cloisonne; in time cloisonne became popular among the common people; their favorite called 'Jingtai Blue'.

During the reigns of Emperors Kangxi and Qianlong of the Qing Dynasty (1644 - 1911), cloisonne improved and reached its artistic summit. Colors were more delicate, filigrees more flexible and fluent, and scope was enlarged beyond the sacrifice-process wares into snuff bottles, folding screens, incense burners, tables, chairs, chopsticks, and bowls.

Cloisonne manufacture is comprehensive and sophisticated, combining the techniques of making bronze and porcelain ware, as well as those of traditional painting and sculpture:

Model hammering: The process is to form copper pieces into various shapes with a hammer according to a design, joining them under high temperature.

Filigree welding: In filigree welding the artist pinches and curves copper filigree into delicate flower patterns, pasting them onto the copper molds. Possibly the most challenging step of the procedure, heating to 900 degrees centigrade, firms the metal.

Enamel filling: Through this interesting procedure, the cloisonne wears a colored wrap. Handicrafts specialists fill enamel glaze into lattices formed by fine-spun filigrees. Just one filling is not enough - the filigrees extrude, and the surface is dull. They have to fuse powdery glaze in the smelter at 800 degrees centigrade, then take the object out and repeat the process three or four times until its surface becomes smooth.

Surface polishing: Seeking smooth surfaces, artisans polish articles three times with grit or charcoal. The work requires extreme care.

Gilding: After acid pickling, fluid gold adds elegance and civility to a cloisonne piece.

Today cloisonne technique is associated with the sculpture of wood, jade, ivory and lacquer. Cloisonne art is exported to many countries as a favorite medium for ornaments.

Artistic & Historical Background:   Listen to it

This artwork is a Chinese painted lacquer, gold-inlaid, silver-enamel calfskin King of Bulls, which showcases exquisite craftsmanship and rich cultural connotations.

The piece employs traditional Chinese painting techniques to depict the image of the King of Bulls through meticulous brushwork and elaborate ornamentation.

In this artwork, we can see that the golden enamel surface is inlaid with silver patterns, a unique technique that adds to the opulence and layering of the piece.

The historical background of this artwork can be traced back to ancient China, where bulls were revered as sacred animals and endowed with various symbolic meanings.

In traditional Chinese culture, bulls are seen as symbols of diligence, endurance, and strength, making the King of Bulls a representation of these qualities.

Through this artwork, we can gain insight into ancient Chinese people's worship of animal figures and their awe of natural forces.

In addition to its historical significance, this artwork also holds artistic and collectible value.

Due to its unique craftsmanship and exquisite design, it may become a sought-after item among collectors.

It can also serve as an important window for showcasing Chinese traditional culture and demonstrating the unique charm of Chinese traditional art to the world.

In conclusion, this Chinese painted lacquer, gold-inlaid, silver-enamel calfskin King of Bulls is an artwork with rich historical significance and artistic value.

It not only showcases ancient Chinese people's worship of animal figures and their awe of natural forces but also embodies the unique charm of Chinese traditional art.

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