Kolrosing (pigmented incision decoration)
Kolrosing is a decorative technique in which a pattern is incised into a surface and highlighted with colouring material rubbed into the lines. It is used on materials including wood, bone and horn. Charcoal has been used as pigment, but bark and other colourants may also be involved.
Incisions and pigment
The defining feature is the combination of cut lines and colour. Kolrosing is therefore not the same as painting a pattern onto a surface. It also differs from chip carving, which builds patterns through cut-out recesses. A dark line alone is nevertheless insufficient to establish the technique.
Tradition does not establish attribution
Kolrosing is found in Sámi craft among other contexts. This does not make every kolrosed object Sámi, nor does a pattern alone establish location, age or maker. Record material and technique separately, and link any origin claim to documentation for the actual object.
Examination and preservation
Use good raking light to examine how colour sits in the incisions. Photograph worn areas, possible later interventions and inscriptions. Do not refresh old decoration with new pigment or sand the surface to increase contrast. Such treatment can alter both the appearance and the evidence needed for further assessment.
Sources
Norges Husflidslag: Kolrosing; NDLA: Dekorteknikk, kolrosing.
