Material
Enamel
A glass-like coating fused to metal, glass or ceramics to form a hard, often coloured surface.
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Understanding the term
Enamel's appearance depends on its support, glass composition and firing. It may be transparent, opaque or built in several layers. Fine stress lines can belong to the process, while chips typically expose the material beneath the glass-like surface.
Enamel is more than the name of a raw material. It affects form, weight, surface, durability and the way an object ages, making it central to both experience and assessment.
Look for variation in colour and texture, joins, wear and later repairs. Natural evidence of making and age should be distinguished from damage; that distinction is essential when describing older art and design.
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