Description

• The National Park Service defines terracotta, also rendered terra-cotta, as a type of aged clay mixed with sand or pulverized fired clay. After molding and firing, terracotta is hard and compact, making it a very strong building material. Before it is fired, terracotta may be glazed with a solution of metal salts or a slip glaze. Though brown-orange terracotta is the most common type, terracotta may also be white or red, depending on where it is from.
  
  

History

• One of the most significant and dramatic discoveries concerning terracotta was the set of terracotta warriors of Qin Shi Huang, the first emperor of China. His tomb was protected by more than 6,000 life-sized warriors made of terracotta, which became known as the "Terracotta Army." Each figure was an individual, as the terracotta allowed a great deal of detail to be invested in the figures. These figures date back to 210 B.C., proving the longevity of this substance.
  
  

Care

• When cleaning terracotta, whether it is a small terracotta pot or terracotta building embellishments, the point is to remove all the dirt without harming the terracotta itself, which can be brittle if it is old or poorly cared for. Use water, a mild detergent and a nylon brush to remove the grime. In more extreme cases where the grime has set in, professionals may choose to use acid or steam to remove stains.
  
  

Uses

• Terracotta may be used as a sculpting material, in the production of pots and other containers and in construction. One type of terracotta, known as brownstone, is typically used as a substitute for sandstone or brick, while glazed architectural terracotta was used to imitate stones. Terracotta may be molded to make roof tiles or formed into hollow bricks to build walls.