Let's Learn About... Enamelling!

This August, LET’S LEARN ABOUT… Enamelling!

What is enamelling?

Enamelling is a decorative art technique in which coloured glass is fused onto metal surfaces.

The enamelling process

Enamel is made by crushing coloured glass into a fine powder. Different colours are used to create vibrant designs.
Thin layers of powdered glass are applied to the surface of a metal object.
The object is then placed in a high-temperature kiln, where the powdered glass melts and fuses with the metal.
After firing, the object has a smooth, colourful finish.

The first enamelled objects may have been made in Cyprus in the 13th century, during the Mycenaean period. Skilled craftsmen from different parts of the world have used this technique to design jewellery, vases, and other decorative items. These objects are valued for their beautiful designs, striking colours, and durability. Check out some enamelled objects from the ACM’s collection below!

OBJECTS IN THE ACM COLLECTION

Pedestal dish (tazza)

China, Guangzhou, mid-18th century

Painted enamel on copper, height 23.5 cm

2014-00482

This pedestal dish, also known as a tazza, features flowers and scrolling leaves in brightly coloured enamels. It may have been used for decoration, or to serve fruits or candies to guests.

More than 200 years ago, there was an imperial workshop in Guangzhou that specialised in painted enamels. The intricate patterns and watercolour-like flowers on this object demonstrate the skills of Chinese enamellers.

View the pedestal dish up close in our Maritime Trade Gallery on Level 1.

Pedestal dish (tazza)

China, Guangzhou, mid-18th century

Painted enamel on copper, height 23.5 cm

2014-00482

This pedestal dish, also known as a tazza, features flowers and scrolling leaves in brightly coloured enamels. It may have been used for decoration, or to serve fruits or candies to guests.

View the pedestal dish up close in our Maritime Trade Gallery on Level 1.

Elephant head bangles

India, Benares, 19th century

Gold with semi-precious gemstones and enamels, diameter 8.4 cm each

2016-0031

This pair of colourful bangles was made by skilled craftsmen in Mughal India. Why do you think they chose elephant heads?

If you look carefully, you’ll notice that pink flowers and scrolling vines are enamelled along the inner edges. Enamelling was introduced to India in the late 16th century when craftsmen from the court of the Mughal Emperor Akbar were sent to learn the technique from European craftsmen in Portuguese-ruled Goa.

Take a closer look at the bangles in our Court and Company Gallery on Level 1.

Elephant head bangles

India, Benares, 19th century

Gold with semi-precious gemstones and enamels, diameter 8.4 cm each

2016-0031

This pair of colourful bangles was made by skilled craftsmen in Mughal India. Why do you think they chose elephant heads?

Take a closer look at the bangles in our Court and Company Gallery on Level 1.

CREATE

Enamelled objects are valued for their vibrant colours and intricate designs. Download here a printout of the painted enamel tazza from the ACM collection and use watercolour pencils or paints to bring it to life!

Remember to tag us @ACM_SG #LearningatACM to share your creation!

EXPLORE

Visit NHB’s one-stop heritage portal Roots.sg to read more about the objects featured here.

Pedestal dish

Elephant head bangles

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There’s more!

Check out videos and other e-resources inspired by the objects in the ACM collection.

Related Programmes

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A monthly series of online resources to learn about our objects through topics, fun facts, quizzes, videos and sharing from ACM folks. See all past Let's Learn About... resources here!