Lustre is a metallic or iridescent surface effect on ceramics and glass, produced by applying metal compounds, such as copper, silver, gold or platinum, that develop a shimmering or reflective finish when fired. In ceramics, lustre is usually applied over the glaze and fired at a low temperature in a reducing kiln.
Lustre decoration was developed in the Islamic world, notably in Mesopotamia and later in Egypt, Persia and Spain, where Hispano-Moresque lustreware was produced in centres such as Valencia. Italian maiolica potters in Deruta and Gubbio also produced superb lustred wares in the Renaissance. In England, lustre became popular in the early nineteenth century on Staffordshire and Sunderland earthenware, with silver lustre made from platinum, copper lustre and splashed pink lustre. Victorian art potters, most famously William De Morgan, revived the rich ruby and gold lustres of Islamic and Italian traditions, and Wedgwood produced Fairyland Lustre in the twentieth century. In glass, iridescent lustre effects were achieved by Tiffany and Loetz. Collectors check for rubbing and wear to lustre surfaces, which is common, and assess the depth and brilliance of colour.
