History of Cuerda Seca

The “cuerda seca” (dry cord) technique originated in the 15th Century, South Spain which was the main center of Western Art and Culture.  At that time ceramists masters did not know how to mix colors when firing them, so they were constantly looking for new ways to separate colors, and one of the methods they devised was the “cuerda seca”.

With this technique they combined Gold and Enamel to create extraordinary works of art today appreciate all over the world.

Our products are made in Spain by artisans from generations of families that have followed this traditional technique just the way it was practiced in the 15th Century. We offer you the highest quality accent pieces that are unique and uncommon in the USA.

The Process:

The “cuerda seca” process begins with the “Bizcochado” (bisqué), or molding of the clay, which is then dried and decorated with a first drawing of lines (with an oil-based made with manganese bioxide and olive oil) that block the porosity of the clay and are what later will allow the separation of the Enamels.

After a first firing at low temperatures, the Enamels are applied by dropping them in the spaces between the lines, and now a second firing, this time at high temperatures make the Enamels hard and shinny. Then the 24K Gold is applied with a brush and the final firing, the third one takes place giving each one of our products its singularity.

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