Cloisonné, or "Jing Tai Lan" in Chinese, is kind of decorative enamelwork in which metal filaments are fused to the surface of an object to outline a design that is filled in with enamel paste. Introduced from Arab in the late 13th century, the art became popular in Ming Dynasty.

Last week on my visit to Baigong Handicraft Museum, I found this cloisonné shop on the second floor. On the shelves against walls displayed a variety of colorful cloisonné vases. Among them, the most appealing one to me was called "Maple Leaves", featuring many red maple leaves and golden-outlined clouds vividly spreading over the white color vase. The item costs RMB 1600.

In a showcase, I also found some small, inexpensive handicrafts. Like the white horse with golden hooves and beautiful flower patterns on its body is sold at about RMB 200.

In the midst of the room, I see two middle-aged women making cloisonné articles. They said a piece of cloisonné article requires 37 procedures such as body shaping, filigree making, enameling, heating, and gilding.

Ranked as one of the eight consummate arts of Beijing, it is good idea to buy some cloisonné artworks home when you travel in the capital.