Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Ochre is a natural earth pigment that ranges in color from yellow to red. It has been used by various cultures throughout history as a pigment for cave paintings, body decoration, and other forms of art.
Related terms
Cave paintings: Ochre was commonly used in prehistoric cave paintings as one of the main pigments. It provided vibrant colors for depicting animals and symbols.
Body painting: Many indigenous cultures use ochre as body paint for ceremonial or decorative purposes. It adds color and symbolism to the human form.
Ochre falls under the category of natural pigments, which are derived from minerals or organic sources. Other examples include charcoal, clay, and indigo.