Cloisonné Camels

This duo of cloisonné camels were selected for their grand scale and incredible intricacy. To make cloisonné, artisans begin with a metal base to which they solder delicate silver or gold metal wires into raised patterns. The channels between these strips are filled with glass or enamel paste. The artwork is then fired, which causes the paste to melt and form glass or enamel. Finally, the surface is polished for a perfect finish.

Cloisonné art began in the Middle East, spread to the Byzantine Empire and traveled along the Silk Road to China, where the art of producing elaborate and exquisite cloisonné was perfected over time. Given the significant roles they played in the trade between East and West, camels and horses occupied an important place in the literature and art of the Silk Road.