Cloisonné is a decorative art technique involving metalwork and enamel work. Metal wire is fused to a metal base, creating designs and cellular spaces. These spaces or "cloisons" (a French word meaning "compartments") are filled with vitreous enamel. The object is then fired in a kiln, ground down to a smooth surface, and then polished.
Historically, cloisonné was produced in China and Japan as early as the 14th century. It was extremely popular in the Victorian era and was produced on a very large scale until World War I. Cloisonné is a beautiful example of Asian artistic excellence.
