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(Above photo - French Cloisonne Marble Clock Set Garniture Marble Aesthetic Movement)
Champlevé is a traditional enameling technique that involves carving or etching recesses into a metal surface and filling them with enamel. The process, dating back to ancient times, has been widely used in decorative arts, particularly in European medieval artifacts and Asian metalwork.
(Above photo - Antique Clock Set Champleve Enamel - French Garniture 1880)
The base metal—often copper, bronze, or silver—is selected and prepared. The surface is cleaned to remove any impurities that might interfere with adhesion.
Designs are carved, etched, or cast into the metal, forming cells or troughs. These recesses define the pattern and will later hold the enamel. Traditional techniques for this step include hand engraving, acid etching, or casting.
(Above photo - French Clock Set Garniture Champleve Antique Clocks 1860)
Powdered glass enamel, mixed with water or another binder, is carefully placed into the recesses. The colors are chosen based on the desired final appearance, and multiple layers may be applied for depth and vibrancy.
The enameled metal is placed in a kiln at high temperatures (usually between 750–850°C or 1380–1560°F). The heat melts the enamel, fusing it to the metal surface.
Once cooled, the surface is ground and polished to remove excess enamel and achieve a smooth, glossy finish. Additional metalwork, such as gilding or patination, may be applied for aesthetic enhancement.
(Above photo - French Cloisonne Grandfather Clock)
Champlevé has been used extensively in jewelry, antiques, clocks, religious artifacts, and decorative items such as bronze fountains and plaques. The technique’s durability and striking color contrasts make it a favored choice for intricate metalwork. Today, artisans continue to use champlevé to create both traditional and contemporary designs, preserving this centuries-old craft.
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