Terracotta

Clay that has been molded, left to dry, and fired in a kiln at 1300 degrees. Since the clay mixture typically contains iron compounds, the piece that comes out of the kiln is reddish in color. This type of clay was used by all peoples both as a building material and for making pottery. A relative of this clay is earthenware, which is also porous, but since it is made from clays free of coloring oxides, it becomes white or, in any case, light-colored after firing.