Cloisonne Craftsman
しっぽうこう
Industry & Occupation
Classification
Summary
A craftsman who decorates metalware or accessories with vitreous enamel and fires them in a kiln to create beautiful decorative items.
Description
Cloisonne craftsmen create decorative and craft items by piling vitreous enamel (glass powder) onto metal bases such as copper or silver and firing them in a dedicated kiln to harden. They handle everything from shaping and polishing the metal base, mixing and applying the enamel, managing firing temperatures and times, post-firing polishing and buffing, and in some cases metal plating and other finishing processes. While preserving traditional techniques, they incorporate new designs and technologies to excel in a wide range of fields such as jewelry, interior decorations, and architectural decorative panels.
Future Outlook
Its value as a traditional craft continues to be appreciated, with demand expected in domestic and international tourist souvenirs and high-end decorative markets. Technology inheritance and successor training will be future challenges.
Personality Traits
Excellent Aesthetic Sense / High Concentration / Meticulous / Patient
Work Style
Commissioned Production / Freelance / Traditional Workshop / Workshop Employment
Career Path
Apprentice Cloisonne Craftsman → Cloisonne Craftsman (Artisan) → Traditional Craftsman (Cloisonne) → Workshop Owner → Instructor/Teacher
Required Skills
Enamel Mixing / Kiln Operation / Metal Plating / Metal Processing / Polishing Technique
Recommended Skills
Basics of Color Theory / CAD Design / Design Sketching / Reading English Technical Literature
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | Because high precision is required for the fine application of enamel and post-firing finishing. |
| Creativity & Ideation | Because it is necessary to enhance the appeal of works with original designs and color schemes. |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Communication Skills | Because individual work is the main focus rather than customer interaction or team collaboration. |
| Numerical & Quantitative Analysis | Because complex mathematical analysis is minimal, and measurement is only to the extent of enamel mixing. |
| Collaboration & Teamwork | Because much of the work is individual, and collaborative work is limited. |
Related Qualifications
- Traditional Craftsman (Cloisonne)
Aliases
- Cloisonne Artisan
- Cloisonne Enameler
Related Jobs
- Glass Worker
- Lacquer Craftsman
- Pottery and Porcelain Manufacturer