How do I care for a gold enamel vase?

Dust the surface gently with a soft, dry cloth to prevent accumulation. Avoid chemical cleaners and water immersion, as older enamels and gold leaf can be sensitive to moisture. Keep the piece away from direct sunlight to preserve the vibrancy of the enamel colours. Handle by the body rather than delicate handles or rims.

What is the difference between porcelain and earthenware?

Porcelain is fired at high temperatures until the body becomes vitrified and non-porous. Earthenware is fired at lower temperatures, resulting in a more porous material that requires a glaze to hold liquids. In these listings, porcelain items often originate from European factories, while earthenware forms a large portion of the Japanese Satsuma selections.

Where were champleve vases made?

Champlevé enamelling on metal was widely practiced in nineteenth-century France, particularly in Paris workshops producing decorative bronze wares. These pieces often combine cast metal mounts with coloured enamel panels. The technique has a much older history across Europe and Asia, but the examples here lean towards nineteenth-century French decorative arts.