Hot enamel is a glass-like coating that can be created under the influence of high temperatures (800 °C and more) on a copper or iron plate. After processing, the enamel can become transparent or matte. For the first time, this method of obtaining a glassy surface was mentioned in the Ipatiev Chronicle of the 12th century. When making objects using the hot enamel technique, the artist’s co-author is the furnace: we still don’t know in advance how the heat would affect the material and what the final result of such an interaction would be. After heat treatment, the enamel can be painted. For this, paints with metal salts are used. The product can be adjusted and burnt additionally any number of times. Then it is polished to a mirror finish.
Recently, hot enamel has been used in jewellery making. It is considered to be very durable and also makes the work look as a jewel. Icons and panels are also created using this type of decorative and applied art.
