Vintage decorative teapot-sculpture "Mouse." Crafted from bronze using the cloisonné technique in a combination of raspberry and turquoise hues, it features a bronze handle and a removable lid. Asia, 20th century.

The cloisonné enamel technique originated in China in the 14th century. Creating decorative elements in this technique requires meticulous attention to detail and painstaking work: very fine copper wires are woven onto a metal mold to form cells. Once the design is complete, the cells are filled with multicolored enamel and the piece is fired in a kiln. After cooling, the piece is polished, creating a smooth surface. Pieces made using the cloisonné technique gained unprecedented popularity in the 17th century and were used primarily to decorate imperial palaces and temples. Over time, the technique evolved, the range of pieces expanded, and the pieces became increasingly sophisticated. Today, art objects made using the cloisonné enamel technique adorn modern interiors, giving them a vibrant oriental flair.