Skip to main content
Glite Dictionary
engobe

engobe

1 9.9
A thin layer of liquid clay mixed with colour used to coat pottery before or after heating
  • noun
  • /ˈɛnɡoʊb/
  • Specialized
: engobe
  • The artist applied a layer of engobe to the pottery.
  • engobe on earthenware

Examples

  • Ceramic artists often use engobe to add decorative patterns before glazing.

  • The engobe on the ancient vase gave it a smooth, colored finish.

  • Applying an engobe can help create unique textures and effects on pottery.

  • She used a blue engobe for her ceramic project.

  • The potter used a rich red engobe to add color and texture to his ceramics.

  • After applying the engobe, the surface of the pottery appeared smooth and vibrant.

  • For her new project, she experimented with different engobes to achieve unique finishes.

Synonyms

slip
vsengobe
  • Specialized
1 8.9

A mix of clay and water used to cover or decorate pottery

is a colored clay coating applied before or after firing for surface finish

Surface Forms

engobe singular
engobes plural

Etymology

Engobe comes from French and names a thin clay 'coat' used on pottery. A helpful way to remember it is to think of an engobe as a colored clay 'paint' you put on a pot before or after firing, which is exactly what it does today.