A R T I C L E
The glory of French enamelware
What could be more quintessentially French than a beautiful piece of vintage or antique French enamelware? An essential part of any French kitchen, these pieces are now in high demand from collectors around the globe, as well as the everyday lover of anything French.
Authentic French enamelware is becoming increasingly difficult to find. Produced between the mid-1800s and the 1940s, there is now limited stock available, and demand is increasing worldwide. You can’t just trip along to a French flea market to find a bargain-priced, genuinely vintage polka-dotted teapot!
Enamelling is an ancient technique that goes back thousands of years. From the Ancient Egyptians to the Greeks, Chinese, Romans and Celts, enamel was utilised for its beauty and durability. When modern Europeans rediscovered the technique in the 18th century, both artists and manufacturers were captivated.
The Swiss and Germans began by using enamel to protect cooking utensils, but it didn’t end there. Soon this sturdy and resilient product was being employed in the manufacture of everything from cooking pots to bathtubs to chamber pots. At the same time, however, the shiny, jewel-like colours were attracting artists and jewellers. Fabergé’s eggs, George Stubbs’ portrait miniatures and many Art Nouveau jewellery pieces are all enamel works.
The decorative style of French enamelware is unique – and unmistakable. Combining utility with simple elegance, they are the works of true artists. The glorious designs of the Art Deco period are often abstract, while 19th century designs feature delicate portrayals of flora and fauna. These earlier pieces were hand painted, with later designs applied using stencils, lithography and decals.
At the height of its popularity, all sorts of kitchenware were made with enamel. From regular coffee pots to Biggins (three- or four-part coffee pots), sel boxes (salt boxes), allumette boxes (match boxes), jelly moulds, strainers … the list is endless.
So what is enamel? The term refers to a smooth, durable coating made of melted and hardened glass. To create a piece of enamelware, the metal (originally cast iron and later steel) is first cut and cleaned and then the spout and handle are riveted on. (Manufacturing techniques improved over the years, and later these were welded on.) The item is then coated with multiple layers of enamel, fired in a kiln and cooled.
Interestingly, many other European countries produced quality enamel pieces for the French market, making the term ‘French enamelled ware’ somewhat inaccurate. Some sought-after brands include Japy (Japy-Freres), B&B and Saint Servas, however just as many beautiful pieces remain unmarked.
Toleware (or tole) is also very desirable to the avid enamelware collector. Made from painted tin, these pieces are much lighter, without the thick enamel coating. They do not wear as well as traditional enamelware; however, they are nonetheless very evocative of the French home.
If you simply want the ‘look’ of enamelware, there are some very good reproductions produced now. Some are even made in France, and this is a cheaper alternative to antique pieces.
For myself, I prefer to own an original piece of beautiful French enamelware. Reflecting the French way of life, they are a wonderful celebration of the art and home-life of the nineteenth and twentieth centuries.
By Lee Bower
Gigi a la maison, 307 Coventry Street, South Melbourne 3205
French Provincial... the Australian source for lovers of France
