unglasiert

Unglasiert is a term used in ceramics to describe wares that have not been coated with a glaze. The visible surface is the natural clay body, possibly enhanced by slips, engobes, or burnishing. Unglazed wares are produced in many traditions and can be earthenware, stoneware, or porcelain; some are intentionally left unglazed for aesthetic or functional reasons.

Because the surface is porous, unglazed ceramics absorb water and stains more readily than glazed ware. They are typically not fully waterproof and may require sealing or careful use with food and liquids. The appearance ranges from matte and rough to smooth and polished, depending on the clay, firing, and post-processing such as leather-hard burnishing or polishing. Color may vary with the clay body and firing atmosphere.

Surface decoration on unglazed ware is commonly achieved with slips or engobes applied before firing, or with underglaze decoration that remains without a glaze layer. In some traditions, unglazed surfaces are finished through processes like burnishing (especially with fine clays) or by wood- or salt-firing, which produce unique color and texture without a separate glaze.

Care and usage: Unglazed pottery requires drying and care to avoid staining and leaking; some unglazed wares are treated with oils, waxes, or resins to reduce porosity, while others are intended as purely decorative pieces.

Related terms: Unglasiert is the German term for unglazed; glasiert is glazed. Related concepts include slips and engobes applied to unglazed surfaces, terra sigillata (a fine-slip decoration that can be left unglazed), and biscuit ware (pottery fired to biscuit stage without glaze).