Painted terra-cotta

Definition

Painted terra-cotta refers to ceramic objects, typically made from fired clay, that are decorated with painted designs or colors. It is a technique used in various cultures throughout history.

Analogy

Imagine you're at an art museum and see beautifully painted pottery. These pots were made from special clay that was shaped and then painted before being fired in a kiln, just like how you paint your own ceramics projects in art class.

Related terms

Glaze: Glaze is a glass-like coating applied to ceramics before firing. It adds color, shine, and protection to the surface of the pottery.

Slip: Slip is a liquid mixture of clay and water used for decorating ceramics. It can be applied as a thin layer or used for creating intricate designs.

Kiln: A kiln is an oven or furnace used for firing ceramics at high temperatures. It transforms raw clay into durable pottery by hardening it through heat.