Chinese Cloissoné Factory, Beijing

Photos & story by Debbie Stock

Some items can't be appreciated until you see them being made. I was never particularly interested in purchasing vases, writing pens and other crafted gifts with cloissoné designs until I visited Beijing Cloissone Factory.

Skill and workmanship handed down from the Ming Dynasty is on display at the cloisonné factory—the biggest such manufacturer in China with 6 workshops and 1,800 workers.

Over 70% of Beijing Enamel Brand cloisonné wares produced in China are made in this factory with a gift shop for visitors. Cloisonné is a labor-intensive craft involving a complex multi-step enamel process, that can produce stunning results. Originating in the 12th century B.C. in the Near East, China began using this style in the 13th century.

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