Aloha to Beijing - Cloisonne Factory and Country Lunch

On our way to the Great Wall, we stopped by a cloisonne factory.   From Wikipedia (link),

Cloisonné is an ancient technique for decorating metalwork objects, in recent centuries using vitreous enamel, and in older periods also inlays of cut gemstones, glass, and other materials. The decoration is formed by first adding compartments (cloisons in French) to the metal object by soldering or adhering silver or gold wires or thin strips placed on their edges. 

By the 14th century this enamel technique had spread to China, where it was soon used for much larger vessels such as bowls and vases; the technique remains common in China to the present day, and cloisonné enamel objects using Chinese-derived styles were produced in the West from the 18th century.

These ladies have a special talent to create the "compartments" ... 

... and paint them for a beautiful effect! 

We purchased a small vase with the dragon (male) and phoenix (female), demonstrating balance.  I claimed it as my anniversary gift.  Below are larger vases that were tempting.

I can't imagine how long it would take to create this giant vase ...

... or this grandfather clock!

We stopped at a "country" restaurant to fortify ourselves for the Great Wall. 

I'm not a fan of green beans ... but these spiced beans were devoured by the entire family (even my kids who don't care for spicy food).

I also enjoyed the chicken with chestnuts ... 

... while the kids dined on sweet and sour pork.   Alas, no fortune cookies as they are an American creation.

Mahalo,

Kim in Korea