Old Chinese Cloisonné Table Lamp, from the Mid-19th Century.

Old Chinese Cloisonné table lamp, from the mid-19th century.

Cloisonné is an old metalworking technique, where coloured materials such as enamel or precious stones are held in place by metal strips, creating decorative patterns. The technique originates from the Byzantine Empire and later spread to China. In cloisonné, the metal components (cloisons) are attached to the metal object, which is then filled with coloured enamel or other materials and fired. This makes it possible to create detailed, multi-coloured designs. Cloisonné was often used to make jewellery, religious objects and decorative objects in both Europe and China.

The technique remains popular in China today and was revived in the 19th century in Russia by the House of Fabergé. Cloisonné objects are valued for their elegant, jewel-like appearance and the skilled craftsmanship required to produce them.

Measurements: 51,5x30 cm. Condition: see pictures.