How is enameling done?
First the metal is thoroughly cleaned and superficial oxides are removed by sanding, or by exposure to an acid solution (a process called pickling). The enamel powder is then applied to the metal with a brush, by dusting or spraying, depending on the shape and nature of the object. Subsequently the metal is made to adhere by firing it (in the kiln, or with a torch) at a temperature that is appropriate to the particular enamel used (it varies between 690 en 880 °C). The enamel melts and is thus made to adhere to the metal surface. There are many enameling techniques. We will only very briefly discuss the cloisonné, champlevé plique à jour and grisaille techniques. You will find many examples of enamel panels and of three-dimensional work, occasionally combined to adorn figures in clay, on this website.
