Mázak

Mázak are glaze coatings used on ceramic wares to color, decorate, and seal the surface. They form a vitreous layer when fired and are applied by brushing, dipping, pouring, or spraying. The term is used in Hungarian ceramic practice to describe the glossy or matte shells that finish pottery and porcelain.

A glaze recipe typically combines a glass-forming base (silica) with fluxes that promote melting at the firing temperature, colorants to yield different hues, and opacifiers or stabilizers such as tin oxide. Common colorants include cobalt for blue, copper for greens and reds, iron for browns, and manganese for purples. Glazes can be transparent, allowing the underlying clay body to show through; opaque, white or colored; or specialty finishes such as matte, crackle, or overglazes. They may be used alone or in combination with engobes or underglazes for decoration.

Application and firing depend on the clay body and desired effect. Glazes are often applied in multiple coats and then fired in a kiln to fuse the glaze into a smooth, glassy surface. Compatibility between the glaze and the ceramic body is essential to avoid defects. Common glaze defects include crawling, pinholes, crazing, and blistering, which indicate incompatibilities or improper firing conditions.

Safety and history: historically, some glazes contained lead, which is now restricted or banned in many contexts; modern glazes are typically lead-free and formulated to be safer for tableware and decorative objects. Mázak have a long tradition in Hungarian pottery and are a central aspect of ceramic decoration and durability.