Contribution of Ceramic Technological Approaches to the Anthropology and Archaeology of Pre- and Protohistoric Societies: Apport des approaches technologiques de la ceramique a l'anthropologie et a l'archeologie des societes pre et protohistoriques

The reconstruction of ceramic production and its 'chaîne opératoire' explores social structures in time and space, using multidisciplinary methodological procedures. Session IV-3 at the 18th Congress of the UISPP in 2018 highlighted the contribution of technological approaches to ceramics to the analysis of pre- and protohistoric societies, with case studies focusing on the Neolithic, European Bronze Age, and megalithism in Senegal.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 112 pages
Publication date: 08 April 2021
Publisher: Archaeopress

The reconstruction of the technical systems of ceramic production and its 'chaîne opératoire' offers a unique opportunity to explore certain social structures in both time and space. For numerous years, methodological approaches rooted in multidisciplinarity have enabled researchers to delve into the analysis of both materials and fabrication methods with this specific purpose in mind.

During the 18th Congress of the UISPP in 2018, a session titled "Session IV-3" was organized to emphasize the significant contributions of technological approaches to ceramics in the fields of archaeology and ethnology. The case studies presented during this session focused on various periods, including the Neolithic and European Bronze Age, as well as the megalithism of our contemporary era in Senegal.

By examining the technical systems of ceramic production and their associated 'chaîne opératoire,' researchers can gain valuable insights into the social dynamics, economic systems, and cultural practices of past societies. The study of ceramics, as a material culture, provides a rich source of information about the technological advancements, artistic styles, and material preferences of different cultures throughout history.

Through the analysis of ceramic artifacts, researchers can reconstruct the processes of production, trade, and consumption that shaped these societies. They can identify the technological innovations, such as pottery-making techniques, kiln construction, and glaze development, that contributed to the growth and development of these communities.

Moreover, the study of ceramic production and its 'chaîne opératoire' can shed light on the social hierarchies, power structures, and gender roles that existed within these societies. By examining the distribution and use of ceramic artifacts, researchers can identify patterns of social inequality, such as the dominance of certain groups or the marginalization of certain individuals.

Furthermore, the reconstruction of ceramic production and its 'chaîne opératoire' can provide insights into the cultural values and beliefs of past societies. Ceramic artifacts often carry symbolic meanings and representations that reflect the religious, political, and social beliefs of the people who created them. By studying these symbols and representations, researchers can gain a deeper understanding of the cultural context in which these artifacts were produced and used.

In conclusion, the reconstruction of the technical systems of ceramic production and its 'chaîne opératoire' is a powerful tool for exploring certain social structures in time and space. By employing multidisciplinary approaches and analyzing the materials and fabrication methods of ceramic artifacts, researchers can gain a comprehensive understanding of the past and contribute to the development of our knowledge of human history and culture.

Weight: 508g
Dimension: 290 x 204 x 9 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781789697094