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sgraffito

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noun sgraf·fi·to \zgra-ˈfē-(ˌ)tō, skra-\

Definition of sgraffito

plural

sgraffiti

play \-(ˌ)tē\

  1. 1 :  decoration by cutting away parts of a surface layer (as of plaster or clay) to expose a different colored ground — compare graffito

  2. 2 :  something (such as traditional Pennsylvania Dutch pottery) decorated with sgraffito

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Origin and Etymology of sgraffito

Italian, from past participle of sgraffire to scratch, produce sgraffito


First Known Use: circa 1730

Learn More about sgraffito

  1. Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about sgraffito

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