Bevel
Technique for finishing the edges of glass, porcelain, or silver items
Bevel — is a thin chamfered facet along the edge of an item, found on vases, goblets, frames, and often on silver and porcelain objects. The bevel creates an interplay of light: the facets reflect rays, enhancing the decorative effect. This technique appeared in the Baroque era but became especially popular in the 19th century. Among collectors, antique faceted glasses are highly valued: there have been amusing cases where visitors mistook them for cut crystals!
In porcelain, the bevel is usually imitated with relief molding, while in silver it is done by chasing or engraving. Each facet requires skill, since even a minimal mistake ruins the whole work. Take a closer look at the frame of an old painting — maybe it is decorated with this striking technique.