加飾
foil inclusion
Japanese: 箔加飾
A decorative technique that involves sandwiching gold, silver, and copper leaf between layers. Silver and copper also produce chemical reactions and color changes.
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Foil inclusion is a technique in which metal foils—such as gold, silver, or copper—are sandwiched between layers of glass and then fired. During firing, the metal foils are sealed within the glass, serving as a decorative element that produces effects of light reflection, interference, and color. Gold foil tends to retain its golden luster even after firing, while silver foil undergoes a variety of color changes (silver reaction) depending on the firing conditions.
When placing the foil between the glass layers, position it carefully so that it spreads evenly. Any wrinkles or overlaps will result in an uneven appearance after firing. Additionally, depending on the type of foil, oxidation or chemical reactions may occur during firing, so test firings are essential to achieve the desired effect. If the foil covers a large area, gas generated during firing can easily cause bubbles to form, so be sure to include an appropriate burn-off process.
Related Concepts
By comparing silver foil, copper foil, silver reaction, and dichroic accents, the characteristics of foil finishes and how to choose between them become clear.
This entry is written in Japanese by Rei Chikaoka and translated for readers outside Japan. If something reads oddly, the original is the source of truth.