Red-figure meaning

Red-figure is a technique in ancient Greek pottery where figures are painted in red on a black background.


Red-figure definitions

Word backwards erugif-der
Part of speech The part of speech of the word "red-figure" is a noun.
Syllabic division red-fig-ure
Plural The plural of the word red-figure is red-figures.
Total letters 9
Vogais (3) e,i,u
Consonants (4) r,d,f,g

Red-figure pottery is a type of ancient Greek pottery characterized by red figures against a black background. This technique was developed around 530 BC and replaced the earlier black-figure pottery style.

Red-figure pottery was created by applying a black slip to the ceramic surface and then incising the figures in the slip, exposing the red clay beneath. This technique allowed for greater detail and realism in the depiction of human figures, mythology, and everyday life scenes on the pottery.

History of Red-Figure Pottery

The development of red-figure pottery revolutionized Greek vase painting and became the dominant style during the late 6th and early 5th centuries BC. Artists such as Euphronios and the Amasis Painter were known for their exceptional skill in creating intricate and detailed red-figure pottery.

Techniques and Process

To create red-figure pottery, artists would first sketch the outlines of the figures on the clay surface using a fine black slip. They would then use additional slips and glazes to add details, highlights, and shading to the figures. The pottery was then fired in a kiln, resulting in the distinctive red and black color scheme.

Themes and Subjects

Red-figure pottery often depicted scenes from Greek mythology, religious ceremonies, athletic competitions, and daily life. These scenes provided valuable insights into ancient Greek culture, beliefs, and traditions. The realistic and detailed portrayal of figures on red-figure pottery helped bring these stories and events to life.

In conclusion, red-figure pottery was a significant development in ancient Greek art and ceramics. Its intricate technique and detailed depictions have left a lasting legacy, providing modern scholars with valuable information about the culture and society of the ancient Greeks.


Red-figure Examples

  1. The red-figure pottery technique was popular in ancient Greek art.
  2. The vase displayed intricate red-figure designs depicting scenes from mythology.
  3. Art historians study the evolution of red-figure and black-figure pottery styles.
  4. The artist carefully outlined the figures in red to create a striking contrast.
  5. Red-figure pottery became the dominant style in Athens during the 5th century BC.
  6. Archaeologists uncovered a well-preserved red-figure amphora in the ancient tomb.
  7. The craftsman used a special firing technique to achieve the red-figure decoration.
  8. Museum curators carefully cataloged each red-figure artifact in the collection.
  9. The art dealer specialized in buying and selling rare red-figure pottery pieces.
  10. Students in the art history class learned about the significance of red-figure pottery in ancient Greece.


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  • Updated 07/04/2024 - 01:52:30