It is no secret that we are a fan of ceramic and porcelain lamps (for proof, see here and here). One term that often comes up when discussing ceramics is the term craquelure. So what does it mean?
Craquelure is the fine pattern of cracking on the surface of materials, and in the case of ceramics is specifically related to the small cracks in glazing. The craquelure can occur with age and can also be done deliberately to the surface during the firing process. Craquelure is not reserved to ceramics alone: it is a term that is often used with painted works, as it is common to see paint craquelure on fine art as it ages.
To see this technique for yourself, have a look at a few of the vases currently in our collection that feature this type of surface.
A Pair of Chinese Green Craquellure Vases Mackinnon Fine Furniture Collection
A Chinese Dark Green Glazed Craquellure Vase Mackinnon Fine Furniture Collection
A Pair of 19th Century Chinese Polychrome Craquellure Vases Mackinnon Fine Furniture Collection
A Pair of Chinese Vases with Craquellure Surface Mackinnon Fine Furniture Collection
The Source 