The Use of Materials Science Techniques in the Study of Pottery Construction and Use

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses the use of materials science techniques in the study of pottery construction and use. It focuses on the use of materials-science characterization studies in two other spheres of research: (1) assessment of the relative efficacy of different materials in the manufacture of archaeological ceramics and (2) the contribution of different materials and techniques to vessel durability as measured through simulated-use techniques. The assessment of the contribution of different materials and manufacturing techniques to the performance of archaeological ceramics has a long history in archaeological research. Only recently has an interest in the mechanical performance of ceramics begun to receive wider attention in the field due to growing concern with the broader socioeconomic context of the potter and use of pots as tools. The chapter presents a number of basic materials-science concepts and analytic approaches, particularly in the study of mechanical strength, reviews their use in archaeological studies of pottery production and use, and suggests directions for future research. Some of the techniques discussed in this chapter have been used widely by archaeologists; some have never been used by archaeologists. All have the potential to provide crucial answers to questions about the function of prehistoric ceramics and the technology and organization of ceramic production.

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