Texes Art EC-12 Practice Exam

What oxide is commonly used to create glazes with brown tones in ceramics?

1. Copper Oxide

2. Manganese Oxide

3. Iron Oxide

4. Cobalt Oxide

The correct answer is: Iron Oxide

Iron oxide is commonly used to create glazes with brown tones in ceramics due to its natural coloring properties and stability at high temperatures. When combined with different clay bodies and firing conditions, iron oxide can yield a range of brown hues, from light tan to deep chocolate, depending on factors such as concentration and the presence of other materials in the glaze. Iron oxide is also versatile, allowing artists to achieve earthy shades that are often desired in ceramic work. Its abundance and relatively low cost make it an accessible choice for artisans, further solidifying its prevalent use in creating rich brown glazes.