Overview of Pottery
Pottery refers to objects made of clay that have been fashioned into the desired shape, dried, and either fired or baked to fix their form. Clay is abundant, cheap, and adaptable. It was independently invented in many parts of the world at different times. Archaeologists can study specific design features to learn about ancient cultures, including economic status and technological advances.
Importance in Archaeology
Pottery helps establish a relative and absolute chronological framework for a particular culture. Its usefulness lies in being relatively indestructible and plentiful at archaeological sites.
Identifying Ancient Pottery
Pottery refers to clay objects shaped, dried, and fired to fix form. It is common in archaeology globally, as clay is cheap and usable. Societies independently invented pottery. Design features show where tribes traveled and customs. Potters learned young to make pots by hand. Pottery establishes chronology and provides ancient culture clues, as it survives and exists at sites.
Types and Evolution of Pottery
- Earthenware, Porcelain, and China: Three main types of pottery dating back to ancient times.
- Ancient Techniques: Coiled clay strips, the invention of the wheel in 1500 BC China, and the use of molds for mass production.
Cultural Influences
Egyptian, Greek, Japanese, Roman, and Kenyan pottery displayed distinct regional designs and methods. Greek pottery, known for its mythological narrative patterns, was considered soft and was often referred to as vases. Egyptian potters pioneered technologies such as kilns, wheels, and glazes.
Historical Significance
Pottery was the first human-made synthetic material, with clay’s abundance enabling its independent invention globally. From cooking to storing goods, pottery played a vital role in ancient societies.