Opaak

Enamel revival

Enameling is a traditional craft that originated in antiquity around 1230 BC, with the oldest discoveries dating back to ancient Egypt and Mycenaean Greece. In this technique, glass powder and metal fuse together under high temperatures ranging from 750°C to 850°C. The process demands time, precision, and experience, resulting in a glossy, colorfast, and corrosion-resistant finish that serves both decorative and functional purposes.

Over the past year, W. W. Hermesdorf dedicated himself to mastering this intricate technique. Through material testing, historical research, and direct exchanges with experienced artisans, he gained a profound understanding of enamel’s physical properties, heritage, and traditional methods.

This acquired knowledge has resulted in "Opaak", a collection that consists of a number of handmade lamps crafted from copper and enamel. By combining the traditional enamel with modern shapes and contemporary manufacturing methods, a dynamic tension arises between old and new. The lamps are not merely functional objects, but also carriers of knowledge, history, and renewed appreciation.