Antique Red Cloisonné Brush Adorned with Delicate Flowers and Golden Chinese Characters
38cm
- In stock (2)
- Delivered within 3 or 6 days
Antique Cloisonné Calligraphy Brush – 38 cm – Refined Chinese Decoration
Discover this exquisite 38 cm decorative cloisonné calligraphy brush, aged about 50 years, a true testament to Chinese refinement. The copper or brass handle is entirely covered with polychrome enamel. Each metal partition, hand-soldered, defines bright enamel compartments that have endured centuries without losing their luster. The natural bristle tuft—likely a goat blend—provides a warm contrast with the metal, achieving a perfect aesthetic balance. Ideal for enhancing a console table, a study desk, or a display in your living room, this brush captivates and intrigues. Combining utility and poetry, it’s perfectly suited for interior decoration or display in a collectible showcase.
Cloisonné in China: History & Traditions
Cloisonné is an iconic Chinese decorative art dating back to the Ming dynasty (14th–17th centuries) and perfected during the Qing era. Originally reserved for imperial courts, it symbolizes prosperity, harmony, and masterful craftsmanship. Each piece results from a meticulous dialogue between copper, partitioning metal, and colored enamel. Turquoise, emerald, pink, and yellow shades are obtained through mineral and oxide blends, offering a translucent, durable finish. The outcome is a smooth, impact-resistant surface adorned with floral, geometric, or animal motifs, showcasing the technical genius of Beijing and Jingdezhen workshops.
Detailed Production Steps:
- Support modeling: Shaping the copper or brass body, then polishing for a smooth surface.
- Partition placement: Applying ultra-fine metal wires (copper, silvered) to form motifs using borax solder.
- Enamel prep: Grinding enamel powders and mixing with linseed oil into a creamy paste.
- Compartment filling: Manually applying each color into the cloisonné cells.
- First firing: Vitrifying enamel at 800–900 °C, then checking for cracks and retouching.
- Polishing & buffing: Removing enamel excess and enhancing colors with fine sanding.
- Final firing: Short kiln session to harmonize the surface and stabilize the patina.
Chinese Calligraphy Brushes: Use & Symbolism
Calligraphy brushes are one of the “Four Treasures of the Scholar” (brush, ink, inkstone, paper). Traditionally, handles are made of bamboo, ivory, or metal, and bristles come from goat, wolf, or selected blends for elasticity and ink retention. Over dynasties, the brush became not only a scholar’s tool but also a standalone work of art. Used to trace characters and ink paintings, it embodies harmony between man and nature. Today, these antique brushes are prized for decoration: displayed on lacquered stands or in porcelain vases, they bring authenticity and refinement to any interior.
