Black-figure is a style of ancient Greek pottery that emerged around the 7th century BCE. In this technique, artists painted figures and scenes in a black slip on a red clay background. After firing, the black figures would stand out against the red, creating a striking contrast. This method allowed for intricate details to be added, showcasing the skill of the potters and painters. The black-figure technique was commonly used for decorating vases, amphorae, and kraters, often depicting scenes from mythology, daily life, and athletic competitions. Notable artists, such as Exekias and Euphronios, contributed to the popularity of this style, which eventually evolved into the red-figure technique in the 5th century BCE.