About
珐, the simplified form of 琺, is a phono-semantic compound: the left-side "jade" radical 王 suggests a precious stone, glaze, or jewelry-like material, while the right component 法 (fǎ) gives the pronunciation. Created to transcribe foreign terms for imported crafts, it appears almost exclusively in the compound 珐琅 (fàláng), meaning enamel or cloisonné, a decorative coating applied to metal or ceramics. The character remains a highly specialized descriptor for the glassy, vibrant enamel glazes prominent in Chinese decorative arts during the late imperial periods, never acquiring broader meanings.
Report an issue
Flag incorrect definitions, examples, etymology, etc.