Under-glaze — method of decorating ceramics where the design is applied onto the surface of the ceramic before the glaze is applied.

This technique involves painting or printing the desired design using pigments or inks that can withstand the firing process. Under-glaze decoration is applied using various techniques such as brushwork, stamping, stencilling, or transfer printing. The pigments used for under-glaze decoration are specifically formulated to withstand the high temperatures of the firing process without losing their colour or fading.

Once the under-glaze decoration is applied, a transparent or translucent glaze is then applied over the ceramic surface, covering the design. During the firing process, the ceramic object undergoes high temperatures, causing the glaze to melt and fuse with the underlying clay body. The under-glaze decoration remains visible through the glaze, creating a layered and visually appealing effect.