Basse-taille
Basse-taille is an enameling technique in which transparent enamel is fired over a metal surface that has been engraved, chased or carved in low relief, so the design shows through the glass. The name is French, meaning “low cut”.
What is basse-taille enamel?
In basse-taille a metal surface is engraved or carved in varying depths of low relief, a texture that can be achieved in a number of ways such as etching, engraving, chasing or stamping. The low-relief surface is covered with transparent enamel so that the design is revealed through it, and several thin layers of transparent enamel are then fired over this base, giving the object a brilliant tonal quality.
Basse-taille brings out the full beauty of transparent enamels: light is refracted from the shiny metal beneath, creating an illusion of depth and a play of light and shade. The more reflective the metal, the more enchanting and iridescent the effect, which is one reason it is most effective on gold or silver, the most reflective metals. The reflected light varies with the thickness of the enamel over the low relief, so there are subtle variations in tonal strength, from bright highlights to the rich tones of the deep recesses.
History of basse-taille
Developed in Italy in the 13th century, the technique spread through Italy, France and Spain and was especially popular in Europe during the Gothic and Renaissance periods.
How basse-taille is made
- The metal surface is textured in low relief by etching, engraving, chasing or stamping.
- The relief is covered with transparent enamel so the design shows through.
- Several thin layers of transparent enamel are fired over it.
- Variations in enamel depth over the relief produce highlights and deep tones.
Key facts
- Name: French, “low cut”.
- Origin: Italy, 13th century; popular in Gothic and Renaissance Europe.
- Enamel: transparent, in several thin fired layers.
- Metal: most effective on gold or silver, the most reflective metals.
- Effect: depth and iridescence from light reflected off the engraved metal.
Supplies for basse-taille
Choose transparent colors from our vitreous enamels by brand and type. On copper, silver and gold foils give a reflective ground under transparent enamel.