The Columbia Encyclopedia, Sixth Edition. 2001-07.
craquelure
(krklr´) (KEY) , hairline surface cracking of paintings into characteristic patterns determined by age, climatic conditions, and the materials used in the work. Cracking was so common in works by 18th-century English painters that it became known as craquelure anglaise. Forgers and restorers often imitate craquelure to enhance the look of authenticity in their works.