Cloisonné is a way of enamelling an object, typically made of copper, where fine wires are used to outline the decorative areas and enamel paste is applied before the object is fired and polished. The Japanese term for enamelware directly translates as Seven Treasures, a reference to the seven treasures mentioned in Buddhist texts.

These have been interpreted widely to include gold, silver, emerald, coral, agate, lapis lazuli, giant clamshell, glass and pearl – precious materials whose intrinsic qualities are reflected in cloisonné enamels.

The Edwin Davies collection of Japanese cloisonné enamels, one of the finest in the world, goes on display at Brading Roman Villa from 27th June - 20th September 2015. The collection, on loan from the Victoria & Albert Museum, London, provides an insight into one of Japan’s most exquisite art forms.

Open daily 10am-4pm

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