Antique paired vases in the shape of a gourd. Copper, enamel. Made using the cloisonné technique. The handles of the lids are made in the form of pumpkin “tails”. China, XX century

Since ancient times, gourds have been used as a vessel for storing drinking water. It was carefully dressed, dried and decorated. In such an unusual vessel, the water remained fresh for a long time, and since water was of great value, the pumpkin began to symbolize wealth. The shape of the fruit resembles the number “8”, which is also of great importance, because in Chinese culture it is believed that this is the “luckiest” number that brings good luck and prosperity.

The technique of cloisonne enamel originated in China in the 14th century. The technology for making decor using this technique requires a lot of attention and painstaking work: very thin copper wires are threaded onto a metal mold to form cells. After the design is ready, the cells are filled with multi-colored enamel and the product is fired in a kiln. When the object cools, it is polished, making the surface smooth. Products made using the cloisonne technique gained unprecedented popularity in the 17th century and were used mainly to decorate imperial palaces and temples. Over time, technology developed, the range of products expanded, and objects acquired greater sophistication. Today, objects of art made using the cloisonne enamel technique decorate modern interiors, giving them a bright oriental flavor.