THE decoration phase of porcelain production, including for Limoges Boxes, is significant because it allows the artist to emphasize the shapes created by the modeller.
In the 18th and 19th centuries all decorations were done by hand.
Today there are several methods for hand-decorated porcelain:
The motif is hand-painted by an artist, usually using watercolours. The watercolours are then transferred to the porcelain using a decal process.
The decals or lithographs are printed using a silk screen and ceramic colours on gummed paper covered with a transparent film. Details are added in gold or platinum by hand.
Inlaying is a very high quality decoration whose authenticity is certified by a label on the back of the piece.
Decorations are engraved, then filled with a bitumen-based varnish, with the exception of the motifs.
Once the piece is coated in this manner, it is plunged into a hydrofluoric acid bath which etches the motif into the porcelain.
After the piece is cleaned, two coats of gold are applied to the engraved motif. After each coat is applied, the piece is fired. Finally, the gold inlay is hand-polished using an agate stone.
Stamping: a relief is cut into a rubber band. The stamp is inked with ceramic colours which allows the motif to be reproduced in colour on the piece.
