Cloisonné is an ancient technique for decorating
metalwork objects, in recent centuries using
vitreous enamel, and in older periods also inlays of cut
gemstones, glass, and other materials. The resulting objects can also be called
cloisonné. The decoration is formed by first adding compartments (
cloisons in French) to the metal object by
soldering or adhering silver or gold wires or thin strips placed on their edges. These remain visible in the finished piece, separating the different compartments of the enamel or inlays, which are often of several colors. Cloisonné enamel objects are worked on with enamel powder made into a paste, which then needs to be fired in a
kiln.