key term - Pottery temper

Definition

Pottery temper refers to the materials added to clay before shaping and firing to improve the properties of the final ceramic product. These materials, which can include sand, grit, organic matter, or other substances, help prevent cracking and warping during the drying and firing processes, enhancing the strength and durability of the pottery. Understanding pottery temper is crucial for interpreting ancient ceramic technologies and cultural practices.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Different types of temper can be used depending on the desired characteristics of the final pottery, such as texture and thermal resistance.
2. Pottery temper can provide insights into trade networks, as certain temper materials may only be available in specific geographic areas.
3. In experimental archaeology, researchers recreate ancient pottery-making techniques to study how different tempers affect the properties of the finished ceramics.
4. The choice of temper can also reflect cultural identity, as different societies may have distinct preferences or traditions regarding pottery production.
5. Identifying the type of temper in archaeological finds can help archaeologists date the artifacts and understand the technological advancements of the culture.

Review Questions

• How does the choice of pottery temper influence the physical properties of ceramic artifacts?
  • The choice of pottery temper significantly impacts physical properties like strength, durability, and thermal shock resistance. For example, adding sand as a temper can reduce shrinkage during firing and help prevent cracking. Different tempers can also affect texture and appearance, contributing to the aesthetic qualities valued by various cultures.
• Discuss how ethnoarchaeology contributes to our understanding of pottery temper and its implications for interpreting past human behavior.
  • Ethnoarchaeology helps researchers study contemporary pottery-making practices to draw parallels with ancient techniques. By observing how modern potters select and use various tempers based on local materials, archaeologists can infer the choices made by past cultures. This understanding sheds light on social practices, trade relationships, and technological innovations in historical contexts.
• Evaluate the role of experimental archaeology in reconstructing ancient pottery production methods and its significance for interpreting archaeological finds.
  • Experimental archaeology plays a crucial role in reconstructing ancient pottery production by allowing researchers to replicate traditional methods using specific tempers. By analyzing how these choices affect the physical properties of ceramics, archaeologists gain valuable insights into past technologies and cultural practices. This evaluation not only enhances our understanding of specific artifacts but also broadens our knowledge about human ingenuity and adaptation in various environments.

Related terms

Ceramics: The art and science of making objects from clay and other raw materials that are hardened by heat.

Firing: The process of heating pottery in a kiln to harden it and make it durable.

Clay: A natural material composed of fine-grained minerals that becomes plastic when wet and hardens when fired.