Rich Hues and Delicate Details: Enameling in 19th Century Vienna
Fine European Furniture, Decoration and Fine Art on Wednesday, October 28 at 11am. ONLINE
Enameling is the process of fusing fine glass particles to a surface by heating them at a high temperature until the particles ‘melt’ and then harden into a vitreous ‘glasslike’ surface. Enameling techniques vary, however, painted enamel creates perhaps the most elegant effect as the fine particles are brushed onto the surface prior to firing. The resulting rich colors and intricate details create a perfect format for small luxury objects.
The Austrian art of enameling in concert with the skills of silversmiths reached a zenith in the 19th century. The capital of Vienna became a key center for decorative enameling particularly in the Renaissance Revival style which maximized the display of painterly skills. These objects often took the form of clocks, inkwells or even miniature models of furniture with working drawers and doors. These were popular with 19th century collectors looking to possess expensive looking objects at a fraction of the cost of Renaissance originals.
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