Texes Art EC-12 Practice Exam

Which term refers to pottery that has been fired but not yet glazed?

1. Earthenware

2. Bisque

3. Stoneware

4. Porcelain

The correct answer is: Bisque

The term that refers to pottery that has been fired but not yet glazed is bisque. This process involves the first firing of the clay, resulting in a porous and sturdy form that can be further decorated or covered with glaze. Bisque pottery has a natural, unglazed surface, which is ideal for artists and potters who want to add decorative elements without the interference of a glaze. Earthenware, stoneware, and porcelain represent different types of clay bodies or pottery that are often associated with specific characteristics and firing temperatures. Earthenware is a lower-fired clay that is typically porous and may require glazing to be functional. Stoneware is denser and more durable due to higher firing temperatures, often used for functional pieces that can be both glazed or unglazed. Porcelain is a high-fired, very strong and often translucent clay that is typically glazed. However, none of these terms specifically denote pottery that has undergone the initial firing while remaining unglazed, which is the defining characteristic of bisque.