Uwa-etsuke (overglaze enamel)
Decoration applied to ceramic ware after the final glaze firing, using low-temperature enamel pigments that are then re-fired. Uwa-etsuke enables the vivid reds, greens, yellows, and golds seen in Kutani ware, Kyoto ware (Kyo-yaki), and Imari porcelain.
FAQ regarding Overglaze Painting (Ue-etsuke)
Q1. What is the definitive difference between "Overglaze" and "Underglaze" painting, and what are their respective charms?
The primary difference lies in whether the design is painted above or beneath the glass-like layer of glaze, as well as the firing temperature.
Pigments are applied directly to the porous, bisque-fired clay. The piece is then coated with a clear glaze and high-fired at around 1,300°C. Since the design is sealed under the glassy layer, its greatest charm is that it never fades, feels perfectly smooth, and is highly durable for daily use (e.g., Sometsuke).
Overglaze (Ue-etsuke)
Pigments are painted on top of the already high-fired, smooth glaze. The piece is then fired a second time at a lower temperature of around 800°C. This allows artisans to use delicate pigments that would otherwise burn away at high temperatures. Its ultimate appeal is the ability to achieve an overwhelmingly vibrant and luxurious palette, including reds, yellows, greens, golds, and silvers.
Q2. What specific techniques or styles exist within overglaze painting?
Depending on the pigments and cultural lineage, there are several iconic Japanese overglaze techniques:
Gosai / Iro-e (Polychrome Overglaze)
A technique using translucent, glass-like enamels (typically red, yellow, green, purple, and dark blue) applied thickly to create a raised texture. This is famously seen in Kutani ware, Ko-Imari, and the Kakiemon style.
Kinsai / Ginsai (Gold and Silver Accents)
Liquid gold or silver is painted onto the glaze and fired to add a brilliant, metallic luster. This is widely used to create a sense of opulence in celebratory tableware and tea utensils.
A style centered around red pigments, using fine linework and delicate shading to express both boldness and elegance.