What is sgraffito decoration on Islamic ceramics?

In the context of Islamic arts, sgraffito is a decorative technique used on ceramics that involves scratching designs through a surface layer to reveal the contrasting color of the body beneath.12

Typically, Islamic potters would apply a white slip—a mixture of clay and water—over a vessel, often one with a reddish body. By incising or scratching patterns through this superficial slip, the artist exposed the underlying clay, creating a distinct design.123

This technique was frequently employed to depict large floral forms, animals, and bold inscriptions. In some variations, the background was cut away to leave a raised design in the white slip, or the incised patterns were further embellished with green and brown glazes. Sgraffito ware became a common and significant style throughout the Middle East, appearing in regions such as Egypt and Syria by the 13th century.21