1. A network of fine cracks or fissures that form on the surface of paintings, pottery, or other materials, typically due to age, drying, or environmental stress.
Usage: plural form; used in art history and conservation; from French craquelure

Examples

• The old master painting showed visible craquelures across its surface.
• Art conservators studied the craquelures to determine the age of the ceramic piece.
• The varnish developed fine craquelures after decades of exposure to sunlight.
• Experts can sometimes distinguish authentic paintings from forgeries by examining their craquelures.
• The pottery's craquelures formed a delicate web-like pattern over time.