Enamelware at the "World of the Orient" exhibition.

The exhibition is completed by metal vessels, mainly copper and bronze. They are decorated with baffle enamel. The art of applying enamel to metal objects is a difficult technique that requires precision and patience on the part of the craftsman. In the Far East, however, it was a skill that was highly prized and valued in all branches of manufacturing. Perhaps this is why enameled objects from China and Japan have achieved true mastery of this type of decoration, which has also been known in the Western world since ancient times. Among the objects on display, the most remarkable are a pair of incense sticks in the shape of mythical animals - qilins. Identified with the European unicorn, they are one of the most important mythological animals in China. It was thought to have the body of a deer covered in fish scales, the head of a dragon with a horn, the legs and hooves of a horse and the tail of an ox. Despite its menacing appearance, it was considered a benevolent creature to humans. According to Chinese tradition, qilins were only seen during the reigns of wise and just monarchs. They were a popular subject for court artists and craftsmen. They are also a symbol of longevity, order and harmony, and express the desire to have children.