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BEIJING · TRADITIONAL CRAFT

Beijing cloisonné: from wire to colour

Fine copper wire outlines a pattern; colour is then filled in. See the handwork before the finished piece.

Archival photo of a Beijing enamel factory, not a view of today's museum programme.

Artisans applying colour to cloisonné pieces in an archival factory photo
Gary Todd · CC0 1.0 · Original

More than a finished vase

01 · The base

First notice the metal form that supports the later work.

02 · The wire

Watch how fine copper wire sets the outline of a pattern.

03 · The enamel

See colour fill that outline, then compare it with the finished piece.

Want to see it in person?

Beijing's government guide describes the Cloisonné Art Museum of China as showing the making process, with demonstration and interactive areas. Check current access and workshops with the venue before going.

Cloisonné Art Museum of China
中国景泰蓝艺术博物馆
北京市东城区安乐林路10号