Definition of burnt ochre

The term "burnt ochre" refers to a type of red or brown pigment created by heating natural iron oxide (ochre) to a high temperature, typically around 600-800°C. The process of burning the ochre results in a change in its color and properties, making it more intense and long-lasting than unaltered ochre. The use of burnt ochre as a pigment dates back thousands of years, with evidence of its production found in prehistoric art and archaeological sites worldwide. It was prized for its vibrant color and durability, making it an ideal material for painting, drawing, and decorating various objects like pottery, rock art, and cave walls. The term itself, "burnt ochre," is a compound of two older words: "ochre" (derived from the Greek "oxykthes," meaning "sharp earth") and "burned" (derived from the Old Norse "burran," meaning "to burn"). Since ochre is found in nature as an earthy, unformed substance, adding the word "burnt" helps to distinguish the heated and transformed pigment produced from it. In summary, "burnt ochre" is a term that refers to a type of reddish-brown pigment created by heating ochre to a high temperature, used for various artistic and practical purposes since prehistoric times.