About the Techniques

Vitreous enameled art metal is sequentially fired in the 1450° F range and requires many days of precise design and execution. Vitreous enamel imparts a beautiful marriage of color, glass, light and metal.

Champlevé, a specialized vitreous enamel technique used in many of our editions, balances the lustrous capacity of the surrounding metal "reserve" with the luminous wells of opaque glass inlay fired into individual cells excavated or etched from heavy gauge metal substrate. Dating back to ancient and medieval applications of the technique for heraldic and clerical uses and rejuvenated many times over the centuries in more aesthetically refined decorative styles, champlevé is intimately explored by ultraWAVE Art Metal Studio in a contemporary context of decorative formality and conceptual engagement.

The Basse-taille technique, used for other editions, engages the effect of transparent glass overlay fired onto heavy gauge metal substrate that is acid etched to multiple depths for design. The transparency of the glass overlay picks up and reflects light in a very special way, with the intricately designed metal serving as the visual foundation for this effect.

After the champleve or basse-taille enameling stages, we finish the metal reserves surrounding the glass inlay by applying beautiful patinas or polishes.

We also present editions with dynamic patinas but without the enamel glass inlay.

Our uniquely conceived and executed vessels are sure to generate a focal source of visual calm and energy for you in your own space.

Enjoy !