An electrical field is generated between an application device and an object to be coated. At least one corona electrode associated with the application device is connected to ground, and at least one counter electrode associated with the object is connected at least at intervals to a positive potential. A system for electrostatically coating objects having an application device coating material, and an electrical field device having a high-voltage source which generates an electrical field between the application device and an object to be coated. The field device comprises at least one corona electrode associated with the application device, and at least one counter electrode associated with the object, wherein, during the operation of the device, the at least one corona electrode is connected to ground, and the at least one counter electrode is connected at least at intervals to a positive potential.