Enamelling on gold A historical perspective

• Published in: Gold Bulletin Vol. 15; no. 3; pp. 101 - 109
• Main Author: Buckton, David
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: 01.09.1982
• ISSN: 0017-1557; 2190-7579
• DOI: 10.1007/BF03214613

The history of art and technique of enamelling on gold is covered, over a long period from the late 15th century B.C. The enamel, which is essentially glass, is melted and thus forms a bond with the metal base. The work only remains stable however if the glass and metal are compatible. Very careful annealing, or enamelling on the reverse side, is necessary with many metals to help prevent the different coefficients of contraction spoiling the work as it cools. Gold, however, is very compatible and therefore does not require much special treatment. The three main techniques are described, as they evolved over the centuries in various parts of the world. The development of some processes was in some cases affected for some time by economic and scarcity factors in relation to gold. The superiority and ease of enamelling on gold has remained unchallenged throughout all the years, and even on silver objects the enamelling was often done separately on a gold base first. Ancient instructions for making the gold base are described, including soldering gold sheet to a gold baseplate. Solder however releases gases which escape through the enamel during firing and therefore it should be kept to the minimum. Techniques for bending, forming and deforming the gold base are discussed. To provide depressions to hold the enamel many methods were devised in preparing the gold base, including: embossing; the use of two sheets of gold, one of which is cut out to contain the enamel; and even the gouging out of a piece of solid gold plate. 21 ref.--R.J.D.