India's Meenakari Boxes

The meenakari technique involves applying enamel to the surface of metal sheets. Before the enamel is applied, delicate designs are engraved into the metal. Then an enamel dust is poured into the grooves of the design features. A furnace is used to heat the metal sheet so that the enamel dust melts and becomes liquid. This process may take many steps since each enamel color is fired separately. After the last heating of the enamel, the metal is cooled and polished with agate. These colorful sheets are then used to cover such objects as boxes, picture frames, or vases. The result is a vibrant work of art.