Craquelure

Craquelure is a network of fine cracks appearing on the surface of paintings, porcelain, or ceramics, most often due to the aging of materials. In painting, craquelure occurs when varnish or paint layers lose elasticity and begin to crack. On porcelain, it arises from the differing expansion coefficients of the glaze and the ceramic body.

Craquelure does not necessarily indicate poor condition—on the contrary, it can testify to the authenticity and age of an object. In the past, some cunning antique dealers even artificially 'created' craquelure to pass off items as antique. Art historians use the form and characteristics of craquelure for dating and attribution of works.

The fineness of the pattern is often appreciated by collectors themselves—the unique network adds a special charm and 'character.' Remember that not every crack is craquelure: cracks through the entire object are already a defect, while craquelure is the aesthetic of time.