Red-figure Technique

Definition

The red-figure technique is a style of pottery painting developed in ancient Greece around 530 BCE. In this technique, figures are outlined in black paint while details and interior lines are added using diluted clay slip that turns red when fired.

Related terms

Black-figure Technique: A pottery painting technique that preceded the red-figure technique, where figures were painted in black silhouette against a reddish-orange background.

Slip: A liquid clay mixture used for decorating ceramics before firing.

Pottery: Objects made from clay that are shaped and fired at high temperatures to become hard and durable.