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Latin terra cocta),[3] a type of earthenware, is a clay-based unglazed or glazed ceramic,[4] where the
fired body is porous. Terracotta is the term normally used for sculpture made in earthenware, and
also for various utilitarian uses including vessels (notably flower pots), water and waste water
pipes, roofing tiles, bricks, and surface embellishment in building construction.[5] The term is also
used to refer to the natural, brownish orange color, of most terracotta, which varies considerably.
This article covers the senses of terracotta as a medium in sculpture, as in the Terracotta
Army and Greek terracotta figurines, and architectural decoration. Asian and European sculpture
in porcelain is not covered. Glazed architectural terracotta and its unglazed version as exterior
surfaces for buildings were used in Asia for some centuries before becoming popular in the West in
the 19th century. Architectural terracotta can also refer to decorated ceramic elements such
as antefixes and revetments, which made a large contribution to the appearance of temples and
other buildings in the classical architecture of Europe, as well as in the Ancient Near East.
In archaeology and art history, "terracotta" is often used to describe objects such as figurines not
made on a potter's wheel. Vessels and other objects that are or might be made on a wheel from the
same material are called earthenware pottery; the choice of term depends on the type of object
rather than the material or firing technique.[6] Unglazed pieces, and those made for building
construction and industry, are also more likely to be referred to as terracotta, whereas tableware and
other vessels are called earthenware (though sometimes terracotta if unglazed), or by a more
precise term such as faience.
Contents
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History[edit]
Terracotta/earthenware was the only known type of ceramic produced by Western and pre-
Columbian people until the 14th century, when imported European fired stoneware began
production. Terracotta has been used throughout history for sculptureand pottery as well as
for bricks and roof shingles. In ancient times, the first clay sculptures were dried (baked) in the sun
after being formed. They were later placed in the ashes of open hearths to harden, and
finally kilns were used, similar to those used for pottery today. However, only after firing to high
temperature would it be classed as a ceramic material.