craft:Chinese traditional cloisonne crafts

origin:Beijing

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.

Rich Artistic Connotation & Historical Background:

This artwork is a set of Chinese classical gold-plated bronze horses, which showcase exquisite craftsmanship and rich cultural connotations.

The set consists of two golden horses, each with unique decorations and details.

Their design is inspired by the equestrian culture of ancient China, symbolizing power, speed, and elegance.

These horses are displayed on a red base, adding a touch of bright color to the entire scene.

The production process of this set of horses is very complex and requires multiple steps to complete.

Firstly, artists will weave the body shape of the horse with metal wires, then use the gold-plating technology to coat the metal surface with a layer of gold.

Next, they will carve various patterns and details on the horse's body, such as mane, tail, and hooves.

Finally, they will place the horse on a red base for display, so that viewers can better appreciate its exquisite details and gorgeous appearance.

This set of horses not only has high artistic value but also carries rich historical significance.

In traditional Chinese culture, horses are regarded as symbols of loyalty, bravery, and strength.

Therefore, this set of horses may represent the love and respect of ancient emperors or nobles for equestrian culture.

In addition, this set of horses can also be given as gifts to relatives and friends, implying blessings and good luck.

In conclusion, this set of Chinese classical gold-plated bronze horses is a group of exquisite works of art that demonstrate the charm and glory of ancient Chinese equestrian culture.

Whether from an artistic perspective or from a historical background, this set of horses has extremely high value and significance.

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