Gilding

The technique

In gilding (描金, miáo jīn, “traced gold”), gold is painted onto porcelain that has already been glazed and fired. In traditional fired gilding, gold decoration is applied over the fired glaze and fixed in a subsequent firing at a lower temperature. This places gilding within the overglaze system.

Historical use

Gold accents were used at Jingdezhen alongside monochrome grounds as well as painted enamels. Gilt decoration over powder blue, for example, became characteristic of Kangxi-period production.

Blue Fir objects

On Blue Fir objects, gilding is recorded where the maker describes gilt decoration. In the maker’s interpretation, blue and gold together carry wishes for prosperity and a home filled with precious things.