Meaning & use

craquelure

noun·Advanced

Last updated

A network of fine cracks in the surface of a painting, ceramic glaze, or varnish, often caused by aging.

See it in a sentence

Conservators studied the craquelure on the old oil painting to help date it.

The antique vase's glaze had developed a delicate craquelure over the centuries.

A note on using this word

A specialized art and antiques term borrowed from French; genuine craquelure can help experts distinguish authentic old artworks from forgeries.

Make it your own

Write a sentence using “craquelure”, then compare your use with the examples above.

Your draft stays on this page and is not sent anywhere.