Underglazing
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Underglazing
Underglazing refers to a pottery decoration technique where a layer of color or pattern is applied directly onto an unfired ceramic body, beneath a transparent or translucent glaze, which is then fired in a kiln to vitrify the glaze and fuse the decoration with the ceramic surface. This method allows for intricate designs and vibrant colors to be protected under the glaze, making them durable and resistant to wear over time. Unlike overglaze decoration, which is applied on top of an already glazed and fired surface and then fired again at a lower temperature, underglazing involves only one firing process at a high temperature, ensuring that the decoration becomes an integral part of the ceramic piece. Historically, underglazing emerged in various cultures, with notable examples from Islamic pottery of the 9th century and the blue and white porcelain of China during the Yuan dynasty, demonstrating its long-standing significance in the field of ceramics. The technique has evolved with technological advancements in kiln technology and the development of new pigments and glazes, allowing for a broader palette of colors and finer detail in ceramic art. Underglazing is prized for its versatility, enabling artists and craftsmen to create works that range from simple, monochromatic designs to complex, multicolored patterns, thus bridging the gap between functional pottery and decorative art. The aesthetic appeal and functional durability of underglazed ceramics have made them a popular choice for both everyday use and artistic expression, reflecting cultural traditions and innovations in ceramic technology.
ceramics, glaze, pottery decoration, vitrify, kiln technology
CITATION : "Michael Thompson. 'Underglazing.' Design+Encyclopedia. https://design-encyclopedia.com/define/underglazing?E=429198 (Accessed on October 14, 2026)"
Underglazing
Underglazing is a pottery decoration technique that involves applying a layer of color to a piece before it is glazed, allowing for intricate designs and patterns to be created beneath the transparent or translucent final glaze coat. This method has been historically significant in various cultures, notably in Chinese porcelain and Italian majolica, where it contributed to the rich visual languages of these traditions. Underglazing offers the advantage of preserving the sharpness and clarity of the applied design through subsequent firing processes, as the protective glaze layer prevents the design from wearing off or fading. The technique requires a meticulous application process, where the decorative colors, often made from oxides or underglaze paints, are applied onto the bisque-fired ceramic piece. After decoration, the piece undergoes a glaze firing, which vitrifies the glaze and clay body, ensuring the durability and functionality of the ceramic item. The aesthetic appeal of underglazed ceramics lies in their depth and complexity of design, as well as the tactile contrast between the glazed and unglazed areas. Culturally, underglazed ceramics have played significant roles in various societies, serving both utilitarian and artistic purposes, and reflecting the technological, aesthetic, and social developments of their times. The technique's adaptability to different styles and periods, along with its ability to incorporate technological advancements in ceramic materials and kiln technologies, continues to make underglazing a relevant and cherished method in contemporary ceramic art and design. In recognition of innovation and excellence in ceramic design, the A' Design Award includes categories that celebrate the creative use of underglazing techniques, highlighting their ongoing relevance and potential for pushing the boundaries of ceramic art.
ceramics, pottery decoration, underglaze paints, bisque firing, glaze firing, Chinese porcelain, Italian majolica, ceramic art
Underglazing on Design+Encyclopedia
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