Definition

• Counterenamel, Counterenameling.  Enamel applied to two sides of the same medallic item; the process of applying enamel on both sides. When enamel is applied to two sides and fired, it tends to curl, unless an equal thickness of enamel is applied to both sides so the rate of expansion and contraction of both metal and the enamel are similar. The technique dates from the 15th century and was highly developed in France, as with Limoges china. The Paris Mint has used counterenameling for two-sided enamel medallic objects. The term is also applied to the enamel on the reverse.  See enamel, enameling.

  excerpted with permission from

  An Encyclopedia of Coin and Medal Technology

  For Artists, Makers, Collectors and Curators

  COMPILED AND WRITTEN BY D. WAYNE JOHNSON

  Roger W. Burdette, Editor

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