The network of fine cracks that appears in paintings over time as the paint layer ages and contracts. These crack patterns can help authenticate works and indicate their age and condition.
From French 'craqueler' meaning 'to crack,' adopted into English art terminology in the 19th century. The word reflects the increasing scientific approach to art analysis and conservation during this period.
Art forgers often try to fake craquelure by baking paintings or using hair dryers, but experts can spot artificial cracking because real craquelure follows the paint's natural stress patterns! Each artist's technique creates distinctive crack patterns – Rembrandt's thick impasto creates different craquelure than da Vinci's smooth glazes.
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