Green enameled copper handled vase, made in the 1930s. There are some slight signs of age, as shown in the images. 

Ø cm 18 h cm 25

Enameled copper refers to a decorative technique in which powdered glass is fused onto a copper object by firing at high temperatures. The result is a hard, durable, and colorful surface. This process is a form of vitreous enameling, practiced for centuries.

Although the technique has a long history, it saw a significant revival and a modern stylistic approach in the 20th century, particularly in mid-century decorative arts. Italian designers and craftsmen, such as Gio Ponti and master artisan Paolo De Poli, are famous for their innovative use of enameled copper. They created a variety of objects, including vases, plates, and decorative panels, often characterized by abstract and geometric motifs in vivid colors. These pieces are highly sought after by collectors today.
Various specific techniques are used with enameled copper to achieve different effects.

Champlevé: creating recesses in the metal surface and subsequently filling them with enamel.

Cloisonné: using thin metal wires to form compartments on the surface, which are then filled with enamel.

Basse-taille: engraving a design on the copper and applying a translucent enamel, allowing the pattern to show through.

Sgraffito: application of a layer of enamel followed by scraping to reveal the copper or an underlying enamel of a different color.

Essentially, enameled copper is a versatile medium that bridges the gap between traditional craftsmanship and modern artistic expression, valued for its durability, vibrant colors, and unique tactile quality.