Plique-à-jour
Plique-à-jour is an enameling technique in which transparent or translucent enamel is held in an open metal framework with no backing, so light passes through it. The name is French, literally a “membrane through which passes the light of day”; the easier translation is “open to light”.
What is plique-à-jour enamel?
Plique-à-jour is built like cloisonné, but without a metal base. Thin metal strips or individual wires outline the design, exactly as in cloisonné, but they are soldered to each other instead of to a metal backing. The enamel fills the open cells and, once fired, stands alone, giving the effect of jewel-like stained glass in miniature. As the name suggests, it is a favorite technique in the decorative arts, especially jewelry.
History of plique-à-jour
Developed in France and Italy in the 14th century, the technique has been used largely for making vessels and jewelry and, in Russia, demitasse spoons. Because it has no metal base, plique-à-jour enamel is exceptionally fragile; therefore, few early specimens are preserved.
How plique-à-jour is made
- The design is outlined with metal strips or wires that are soldered to each other, not to a base.
- A temporary support, usually a sheet of metal or mica, is placed behind the open cells.
- The cells are filled with transparent or translucent enamel and fired.
- After the enamel has annealed and cooled, the unattached support is removed.
- The remaining shell of enamel can be carefully polished to enhance its appearance.
Key facts
- Name: French, “open to light”.
- Origin: France and Italy, 14th century.
- Structure: wires soldered to each other; no metal backing.
- Enamel: transparent or translucent.
- Typical objects: jewelry, small vessels, demitasse spoons.
- Character: fragile; light passes through like stained glass.
Supplies for plique-à-jour
Plique-à-jour depends on transparent enamels. Browse our vitreous enamels by brand and type, including leaded and lead-free transparents.