“German schmear” (or “German smear”) refers to a technique used in masonry to create a rustic, old-world appearance on brickwork. It involves applying a thin layer of mortar over bricks, then partially wiping it away before it fully dries. This process leaves some areas of the brick exposed while covering others, creating a textured, distressed look. It’s often used to update or change the aesthetic of a brick facade, giving it a more characterful and vintage appearance, reminiscent of traditional European architecture.