Terra Cotta Pottery Description

History

• In archaeology and art history, the term "terra cotta" is often used to refer to objects not made on a potter's wheel; objects made on the wheel using the same material are called pottery. According to Encyclopedia Brittanica, terra cotta was used throughout the ancient world for roof tiles, building bricks, and sarcophagi (stone coffins). In Greece, small terra cotta figures dating to 3000 BC and the early Bronze Age have been discovered; large terra cotta objects from the 7th century have also been found.

Characteristics

• All genuine terra cotta pots share a natural, warm color and the consistency of fine ceramic. Valued for its simplicity and longevity, terra cotta can last from 50 to 100 years if located in an even, mild climate. Extreme weather conditions can cause delamination, a flaking of the pot's surface. Because of their durability and versatility, terra cotta pots are used as decorative elements both indoors and outside.

Shapes and Sizes

• Terra cotta comes in a wide variety of shapes, from short and round to tall and rectangular. Usually plain in style, most pots do not have cutouts, intricate designs or fancy embellishments.Italian terra cotta pots are more decorative and may feature a rolled rim or lip and a relief design. Terra cotta pots are available in many sizes, generally ranging from 2 to 24 inches in diameter.

Imitations

• Italian terra cotta is considered the most desirable and it's also the most expensive. Terra cotta pots can cost anywhere from $25 to hundreds of dollars, depending on whether they're authentic, fired pots or imitations. Although some pots have the look and feel of real terra cotta, such as Mexican clay pots, they may be sun-dried versions that crumble much more easily than a genuine terra cotta pot. Real terra cotta develops a milky patina as it ages, caused by the leeching of natural salts and lime.