Used to embellish objects of great value and importance, enamelling is an artistic process that has been in existence for more than 1000 years. Craftsmen from throughout the world have experimented with this complex process that fuses layers of coloured glass to metal. From the pioneering practices of the Limoges School through to the diversity of miniature painting and innovations such as photographic transfer to enamel, the history of creating representational artwork with enamels is long, diverse and consistently fascinating.Erika Speel, a leading expert in the field, has taken on the enormous task of interpreting the vast history associated with enamelling to produce the first single reference volume that surveys the entire period, and production methods, of the medium. A dedicated reference book, "Painted Enamels" provides lists of artists and technical information within discursive chapters on the historical developments of the different classes of work. Including details on the recognition of the painting methods for each era and the calibre of the paintings, the supporting texts also show the historical and technical changes that gave the impetus for various innovations and developments of painted enamels. Featuring 80 illustrations, "Painted Enamels" is an invaluable reference volume for all those who collect, study, create or enjoy enamels.