Tin Glaze

Tin glaze is an opaque white coating that appeared in the Middle Ages and changed European ceramics. It contains tin oxide, which provides a rich matte shine and soft whiteness, like porcelain. On such a surface, painting looks brighter and more contrasting than on ordinary clay.

This technique was especially widespread in Italy and Spain, where it became known as majolica. The glaze was applied to dried items, then the items were fired and decorated with mineral paints. The secret of success is a chemical compound of tin, lead, and silica, which produces a dense enamel resistant to fading.

Sometimes craftsmen added copper or cobalt to the composition to obtain unusual shades. After a second firing, the ceramics shone like enamel and became a luxury item on royal tables.