The correct answer to the question is option 2: Chalcolithic.

The Chalcolithic culture, also known as the Copper Age, refers to a period of human prehistory characterized by the use of copper tools and the development of early farming and pottery-making practices. During this time, communities in different regions around the world were independently developing pottery techniques.

While the Mesolithic culture (option 1) predates the Chalcolithic culture, the Mesolithic people were not known for their pottery-making skills. They primarily relied on stone tools for their daily needs and did not engage in pottery production.

The Neolithic culture (option 3) is often associated with the advent of agriculture and the domestication of plants and animals. Pottery-making became a widespread practice during this period as communities settled down in permanent agricultural villages. However, the Chalcolithic culture predates the Neolithic culture in terms of pottery-making.

The Iron Age culture (option 4) occurred much later in history, and by that time, pottery-making techniques were well-established in various cultures.

In summary, the Chalcolithic culture was the first to paint their pottery, making option 2 the correct answer.