Couverte

/kuːˈvɛə(r)t/ noun

Definition

A glaze or coating applied to pottery or ceramics, giving it a finished, often glossy surface.

Etymology

From French 'couverte' (covering), feminine form of 'couvert.' Used in ceramics to describe any surface treatment that covers and protects the clay body underneath.

Kelly Says

Medieval potters discovered that certain mineral coatings didn't just look beautiful—they made dishes waterproof and food-safe, turning a decorative idea into functional chemistry.

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