What materials did Maria use to create the polished surface of her pottery?

What materials did Maria use to create the polished surface of her pottery?

• A. Slip, a viscous mixture of clay and water
• B. Clear glaze
• C. Sand and oil
• D. Wax and soap

Answer: (A)

Polishing a pottery surface is commonly done by applying slip—the viscous mixture of clay and water—and rubbing it with a smooth tool. The slip fills tiny pores and evens out surface irregularities, so when the piece dries and is fired, the surface looks smooth and refined. The other options don’t give that smooth, burnished feel: a clear glaze coats the surface with a glassy layer after firing, which is a different finish; sand and oil would leave a rough, abrasive texture; wax and soap aren’t standard materials used to create a polished finish in pottery.

Polishing a pottery surface is commonly done by applying slip—the viscous mixture of clay and water—and rubbing it with a smooth tool. The slip fills tiny pores and evens out surface irregularities, so when the piece dries and is fired, the surface looks smooth and refined. The other options don’t give that smooth, burnished feel: a clear glaze coats the surface with a glassy layer after firing, which is a different finish; sand and oil would leave a rough, abrasive texture; wax and soap aren’t standard materials used to create a polished finish in pottery.