Definition

1. Noun:

   • A decorative technique for metalwork and enamelware: A method of decorating metal objects, typically vases or jewelry, where thin metal strips (cloisons) are soldered onto a metal base to form compartments (cells). These compartments are then filled with colored powdered glass (enamel), fired in a kiln, and polished to create a smooth, colorful design.
   • An object made using this technique: A piece of art, such as a vase, bowl, or jewelry, created using the cloisonné process.

2. Adjective:

   • Describing an object made with the cloisonné technique: Used to describe metalwork or enamelware that is decorated using the method of separating colored enamel areas with thin metal strips.

Usage Examples

• Noun:

  • The museum's collection includes a magnificent Ming dynasty cloisonné.
  • She admired the intricate patterns on the antique cloisonné.

• Adjective:

  • He gifted her a beautiful cloisonné vase.
  • The cloisonné bracelet featured vibrant blues and greens.

Advanced Usage

• The term is often used in art history and decorative arts contexts to describe a specific historical and cultural craft, particularly associated with Chinese, Byzantine, and Japanese art.
• It can be used attributively (before a noun) to specify the type of object or technique, e.g., , , .

Variants and Related Words

• Cloisonné enamel: The full term specifying the material and technique.
• Cloison (noun): The individual metal strip or wire that forms the compartment walls in this technique.

Synonyms

• Enamelware (broader term, not specific to the cloisonné technique)
• Inlaid enamel (descriptive, though less precise)

Notes on Meaning

• The core meaning of "cloisonné" is intrinsically linked to its specific manufacturing process (using metal strips to separate colors). It is not a general term for any colorful enamel object.
• As an adjective, it almost always precedes the noun it describes (e.g., a , not ).

Adjective

1. (for metals) having areas separated by metal and filled with colored enamel and fired

Noun

1. enamelware in which colored areas are separated by thin metal strips