A bonding agent for a ceramic decalcomania comprises a balanced combination of a fast acting solvent and a moderating agent. A thickening agent may also be present. The decalcomania may be applied to the article either before or after a glaze is applied. The use of such a bonding agent for adhering a decalcomania to ceramic ware permits glaze firing without the necessity of first removing the organic material in the decalcomania and fusing the pigment to the ceramic article by prior heat treatment.