Gipszmázas

Gipszmázas is a Hungarian architectural finishing technique named from gipsz (gypsum) and mázas (glazed). It denotes a decorative plaster surface achieved by applying a gypsum-based plaster and then sealing with a glaze- or varnish-like coating to produce a smooth, often lustrous finish. The base plaster is typically a lime-gypsum or pure gypsum mix chosen for its fine texture and rapid setting; after it sets, an additional thin layer—transparent, tinted, or colored—acts as a glaze. The glaze may be oil-, wax-, or resin-based depending on historical period and local practice, and it serves to reduce porosity, increase washability, and impart shine.

Historically, gipszmázas surfaces appear in Hungarian interiors from the late 19th century into the early 20th century, particularly in urban residences, public buildings and sometimes theatres and churches, where decorative walls and ceilings benefited from the light-reflective quality of the glaze. In conservation contexts, gipszmázas is of interest because gypsum plasters are hygroscopic and glaze layers can be sensitive to moisture and cleaning agents.

Restoration involves careful assessment of both plaster and glaze layers, with attention to color, gloss level and surface texture to maintain authenticity. Reproductions typically use compatible gypsum plasters and archival-grade glazes, applied by trained restorers to match the original appearance.

See also: gypsum plaster, plaster finishing, decorative plaster, architectural conservation.