Coromandel is a style of lacquering that has existed in China since the Ming Dynasty during the early 1600's. The term, coromandel, is named for the Coromandel coast in Southeastern India where the carved screens were originally dispatched to the west by European merchants during the 17th century. Coromandel may be recognized by the particular texture on the surface as a result of all the applied layers. The texture can be seen in this mottled brown and gold box. Notice the thin cracks in the surface. As you rub your hands over a coromandel piece, you can feel the slightly undulating texture.
The art of making coromandel requires a skilled hand, a trained eye and a great deal of patience. Many layers of clay are applied to wood and these are baked to dry. Once the clay is dry, several layers of lacquer are applied. Once these lacquer layers dry, intricate patterns are carved and the carved out sections are painted with bright colors and gold metal leaf is skillfully applied to highlight the decoration. In some cases, the decoration may be entirely of gold metal leaf as in the box above. Finally the piece is antiqued to soften the colors and simulate the tone and finish of the antique originals. The process of coromandel began with Chinese screens using black lacquer. Since that time, the process has been used on various other items and with lacquer colors other than black. This screen is an example of an antique reproduction, done in black lacquer with birds and foliage carved and painted with gold leaf.
A completely different object for coromandel is this 72" tall faux tortoise vase with a neoclassic floral decoration. It, too, is painted with gold leaf.
Telling the difference between the old and new coromandel can be difficult if the new piece is well executed and antiqued. The original pieces usually show signs of flaking and chipping and are becoming increasingly rare and are commanding extremely high prices. Although a contemporary version costs significantly less, with the demand and growing shortage of skilled carvers and painters, a new coromandel of the finest quality has not only aesthetic, but also enormous investment value.
A more contemporary coromandel is done in a silvery gold lacquer. Soft blues and greens define the birds and butterflies. Even though coromandel is considered an art form for antique reproductions, it continues to be appreciated today through modern variations of color and application.
Visit the Maitland-Smith website to see other examples of coromandel -- from accessories to wall art to screens.
Elegant and distinctive pieces for your home today, with quality and style to last a lifetime....Do you have a Maitland-Smith treasure?
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