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Which types of everyday objects have been decorated with enamelwork?

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Samson killing Philistines — Enamelwork Standing dish depicting Samson crushing the Philistines with the jawbone of an ass, enamel on copper by Pierre Courteys, c. 1580; in the Taft Museum of Art, Cincinnati, Ohio. Height 9.8 cm, diameter 22.9 cm.

Throughout history, a vast array of everyday objects has been embellished with enamelwork to provide both decorative appeal and durable protection.

Domestic and Personal Items

Enamel has been used to decorate a wide variety of household and personal goods, including:
* Tableware and Kitchenware: Chalices, cups, spoons, teapots, and kitchen pots and pans.12
* Personal Accessories: Snuffboxes, etuis (small cases for items like scissors and needles), thimbles, scent bottles, and mirrors.1
* Timepieces: Dials and cases for domestic table clocks and watches.13
* Furnishings: Candlesticks, andirons, and even ceiling or wall panels in French châteaus.13
* Modern Utility Items: Bathtubs, refrigerators, and various industrial tanks.2

Decorative and Ceremonial Objects

Beyond functional domestic items, enamelwork has historically enriched:
* Jewelry: A primary medium for colorful, intricate designs.13
* Arms and Armor: Including suits of armor and various horse trappings.1
* Ecclesiastical Items: Reliquaries, caskets, and crosiers.1
* Artistic Objects: Vases, incense vessels, and decorative plaques.1

In modern contexts, porcelain enamelling is also applied to architectural building facings and specialized equipment to prevent corrosion and enhance surface hardness.2