What decorative technique is featured on the Looped Fibulae?

The Looped Fibulae prominently feature the cloisonné technique, which involves the use of metal strips or wires to create compartments (cloisons) that are then filled with colored enamel or stones. This method allows for intricate designs and vibrant coloring, making it ideal for decorative objects like fibulae, which were often used as brooches or fasteners in clothing. The cloisonné technique is characteristic of various cultures, including the Sasanian Empire and the early medieval period in Europe, where the fibulae were often found.

This technique emphasizes the contrast between the shiny metal of the settings and the colorful materials used to fill the compartments, resulting in a striking visual effect. The choice of cloisonné for the Looped Fibulae is indicative of the craftsmanship and aesthetic values of the period, showcasing both functional and decorative purposes in their design. Other techniques listed, such as champlevé and encaustic, involve different processes and materials which do not align with the characteristics of the Looped Fibulae. Oil painting, on the other hand, is a completely different medium and is not applicable to metalwork.