black-figure

1 of 2

adjective

variants or black-figured

ˈ⸗¦⸗⸗

: of, belonging to, or constituting a style of ceramic painting practiced by or in imitation of Greeks of the 6th century b.c. in which the decoration is in black with occasional added details in white slip on the red body clay of the vessel and in which the subjects are usually drawn from mythology, athletic events, or the hunt in an archaic and stiff style

a black-figure vase

black-figure ware

compare polychrome, red-figure

black-figure

2 of 2

noun

: black-figure ware

Word History

Etymology

and Noun

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now