8.4 Pottery and ceramics
9 min read•august 21, 2024
Viking pottery reflects the daily life and networks of Norse societies from the 8th to 11th centuries. Ceramics provide valuable evidence for cultural exchanges and domestic practices, aiding archaeologists in dating sites and reconstructing economic systems.
Pottery types include locally produced domestic wares and high-quality imported goods. Production techniques combined traditional methods with innovations from trade contacts. Decorative styles and motifs offer insights into cultural identity and artistic traditions across the Viking world.
Types of Viking pottery
- Viking pottery reflects the material culture and daily life of Norse societies during the 8th to 11th centuries
- Ceramics provide valuable archaeological evidence for trade networks, cultural exchanges, and domestic practices
- Understanding pottery types aids in dating sites and reconstructing Viking Age economic systems
Domestic vs trade ceramics
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Internet Archaeol. 40. Atkinson and Preston. Late Iron Age and Roman Pottery View original
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Top images from around the web for Domestic vs trade ceramics
Internet Archaeol. 40. Atkinson and Preston. Late Iron Age and Roman Pottery View original
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A Typology of Practice: the Archaeological Ceramics from Mahurjhari. Hawkes et al. Internet ... View original
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coil pots | julie | Flickr View original
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Internet Archaeol. 40. Atkinson and Preston. Late Iron Age and Roman Pottery View original
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A Typology of Practice: the Archaeological Ceramics from Mahurjhari. Hawkes et al. Internet ... View original
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- Domestic pottery consists of locally produced wares for everyday household use
- Trade ceramics include high-quality imported goods often found in urban centers and wealthy households
- Domestic wares typically feature coarser fabrics and simpler designs
- Trade ceramics exhibit finer clays, advanced production techniques, and more elaborate decorations
Local vs imported wares
- Local wares reflect regional sources and production traditions
- Imported pottery originates from various European and Middle Eastern production centers
- Local wares often show continuity with pre-Viking traditions (Anglo-Saxon, Slavic)
- Imported ceramics introduce new forms, decorative styles, and technologies to Viking communities
Functional categories
- Cooking pots designed for heat resistance and even heating (globular forms)
- Storage vessels for preserving food and liquids (large jars, amphorae)
- Serving dishes including bowls, plates, and cups for daily meals and feasts
- Specialized forms for specific purposes (lamps, crucibles for metalworking)
Production techniques
- Viking Age pottery production combines traditional methods with innovations from trade contacts
- Understanding production techniques helps archaeologists identify local vs imported wares
- Pottery production reflects technological advancements and cultural exchanges during the Viking era
Clay preparation methods
- Clay sourcing from local deposits or imported materials for finer wares
- Refining clay through levigation to remove impurities and improve workability
- Tempering with materials like sand, crushed shell, or grog to enhance durability
- Kneading and aging clay to improve plasticity and reduce air pockets
Forming and shaping processes
- techniques including coil building and slab construction
- Use of tournettes (slow wheels) for shaping and finishing vessel forms
- Introduction of fast in some regions influenced by continental traditions
- Molding techniques for creating standardized forms or decorative elements
Firing technologies
- Open firing methods using bonfires or pit kilns for smaller-scale production
- Development of updraft kilns for better temperature control and more consistent results
- Use of reducing or oxidizing atmospheres to achieve different clay body colors
- Firing temperatures ranging from 600-1000°C depending on clay composition and desired results
Decorative styles and motifs
- Viking pottery decorations reflect cultural identity, artistic traditions, and external influences
- Decorative techniques provide insights into regional variations and chronological developments
- Understanding motifs helps archaeologists trace cultural connections and trade networks
Incised patterns
- Linear and geometric designs created by cutting into leather-hard clay surfaces
- Common motifs include wavy lines, crosshatching, and simple animal or plant forms
- Incised decorations often applied to domestic wares using simple tools (sticks, combs)
- Regional variations in incised patterns help identify production centers and cultural groups
Stamped designs
- Repeating patterns created using carved stamps or roulettes
- Stamped decorations include geometric shapes, rosettes, and stylized animal motifs
- Stamps made from wood, bone, or metal used to create uniform designs on vessel surfaces
- Stamped pottery often associated with more specialized production and trade wares
Glazing techniques
- Introduction of lead glazes in later Viking periods, influenced by continental traditions
- Colored glazes using metal oxides to create green, yellow, or brown surface treatments
- Partial glazing techniques focusing on vessel interiors or decorative bands
- Glazed wares often associated with higher status households and urban centers
Chronological developments
- Viking Age pottery evolves over time, reflecting technological advancements and cultural changes
- Chronological trends in pottery help archaeologists date sites and track societal developments
- Understanding pottery developments aids in reconstructing Viking Age trade networks and cultural interactions
Early Viking Age pottery
- Continuation of local pre-Viking traditions with gradual introduction of new forms
- Predominance of handmade wares with simple decorations (incised lines, stamped patterns)
- Limited use of wheel-throwing techniques in most regions
- Emergence of distinctive Viking forms like globular cooking pots and tall jars
Mid-period ceramic trends
- Increased standardization of forms and production techniques
- Wider adoption of slow-wheel and fast-wheel technologies in some regions
- Growth in long-distance trade of high-quality ceramics (Anglo-Norman wares, Rhenish pottery)
- Development of regional pottery styles reflecting local tastes and production centers
Late Viking Age innovations
- Introduction of glazed wares in Scandinavian contexts, influenced by continental traditions
- Increased production of fine tablewares for urban markets and elite households
- Adoption of new vessel forms reflecting changing dining habits (pitchers, cups)
- Integration of Slavic and Baltic pottery traditions in eastern Viking territories
Regional variations
- Viking pottery exhibits distinct regional characteristics across the Norse world
- Understanding regional variations helps archaeologists trace cultural interactions and trade patterns
- Pottery traditions reflect local resources, cultural preferences, and external influences
Scandinavian pottery traditions
- Predominance of coarse, handmade wares for domestic use in rural settlements
- Development of distinctive forms like the hanging vessel (hangekar) for cooking
- Limited local production of fine wares, with reliance on imports for high-status ceramics
- Regional variations between Danish, Norwegian, and Swedish pottery traditions
British Isles ceramic influences
- Integration of Anglo-Saxon and Celtic pottery traditions in Viking settlements
- Development of distinctive Anglo-Scandinavian wares in urban centers (York, Dublin)
- Adoption of wheel-throwing techniques and new vessel forms from insular traditions
- Importation of high-quality Anglo-Norman wares in later Viking periods
Eastern European connections
- Influence of Slavic pottery traditions in eastern Viking territories (Rus)
- Adoption of distinctive decorative styles like wave patterns and stamped motifs
- Integration of Byzantine ceramic influences through trade and cultural contacts
- Development of hybrid pottery styles combining Norse and Eastern European elements
Trade and exchange
- Pottery serves as a key indicator of Viking Age trade networks and economic systems
- Ceramic evidence provides insights into long-distance exchange and cultural interactions
- Understanding pottery trade helps reconstruct Viking maritime and overland trade routes
Pottery as trade goods
- High-quality ceramics traded as valuable commodities in their own right
- Pottery used as containers for other trade goods (wine, oil, honey)
- Specialized forms like crucibles and molds traded for metalworking activities
- Exotic glazed wares from the Islamic world reaching Viking markets as luxury items
Evidence for long-distance exchange
- Distribution patterns of imported wares indicating trade routes and market centers
- Presence of foreign pottery in rural settlements suggesting widespread trade networks
- Concentrations of imported ceramics in urban centers and elite sites (Hedeby, )
- Chemical and petrographic analysis revealing sources of imported clays and tempers
Impact on local production
- Introduction of new technologies and styles through imported wares
- Development of local imitations of popular foreign ceramic types
- Specialization of production to meet demand for trade ceramics
- Decline of some local pottery traditions due to competition from imported wares
Functional analysis
- Studying pottery functions provides insights into Viking Age daily life and social practices
- Functional categories reflect changing dietary habits, cooking methods, and social customs
- Analysis of use-wear and residues reveals how pottery was used in Viking households
Cooking and storage vessels
- Large cooking pots designed for hearth use with rounded bases and wide mouths
- Storage jars for preserving food and liquids, often with narrow necks and lids
- Specialized forms for specific cooking methods (baking dishes, griddles)
- Evidence of repairs and long-term use indicating the value of cooking vessels
Tableware and serving dishes
- Development of fine tablewares for elite households and feasting events
- Imported glazed bowls and pitchers used for serving drinks and displaying wealth
- Local production of simple bowls and cups for everyday dining
- Specialized forms like lamps and hand-washing vessels for specific social practices
Ritual and ceremonial pottery
- Miniature vessels used as grave goods or votive offerings
- Large ceremonial bowls associated with communal feasting and ritual activities
- Specialized forms for libations and other religious practices
- Imported exotic wares used in gift-giving and alliance-building among elites
Archaeological contexts
- Pottery distribution in archaeological sites provides insights into Viking Age settlement patterns
- Understanding context helps archaeologists interpret social organization and cultural practices
- Ceramic assemblages reflect differences between urban and rural Viking communities
Settlement site ceramics
- Domestic pottery assemblages reflecting daily household activities
- Concentrations of ceramics in middens and refuse pits providing chronological data
- Workshop debris indicating local pottery production (wasters, kiln furniture)
- Spatial distribution of pottery types revealing activity areas within settlements
Burial pottery assemblages
- Inclusion of ceramic vessels as grave goods reflecting burial customs and beliefs
- Regional and temporal variations in pottery use in funerary contexts
- Specialized forms like cremation urns used in specific burial practices
- Imported wares in elite burials indicating status and long-distance connections
Urban vs rural pottery use
- Greater diversity of ceramic types and imported wares in urban centers
- Higher proportions of fine tablewares and specialized forms in urban contexts
- Rural assemblages dominated by locally produced coarse wares for everyday use
- Evidence of pottery production and trade concentrated in urban and proto-urban sites
Scientific analysis methods
- Modern scientific techniques provide new insights into Viking Age pottery production and use
- Analytical methods help archaeologists determine provenance, manufacturing techniques, and function
- Combining scientific analysis with traditional archaeological approaches enhances our understanding of Viking ceramics
Petrographic studies
- Thin-section analysis of pottery fabrics to identify clay sources and temper materials
- Characterization of production techniques through microscopic examination of clay matrices
- Identification of non-local wares based on geological signatures of clay and temper
- Tracing pottery distribution networks through comparative petrographic analysis
Chemical composition analysis
- X-ray fluorescence (XRF) to determine elemental composition of clay bodies and glazes
- Neutron activation analysis (NAA) for precise characterization of trace elements in ceramics
- Provenancing studies using chemical fingerprinting to identify production centers
- Analysis of glaze compositions to understand technological developments and trade connections
Residue analysis techniques
- Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) to identify organic residues in pottery
- Analysis of lipid residues to determine vessel contents and dietary practices
- Protein residue analysis for identifying specific food sources (dairy, meat)
- Combining residue analysis with isotope studies to trace the origin of foodstuffs
Pottery in Viking society
- Ceramic evidence provides insights into social organization, gender roles, and cultural beliefs
- Pottery use and production reflect broader societal changes during the Viking Age
- Understanding the social context of pottery enhances interpretations of archaeological assemblages
Social status indicators
- Presence of imported fine wares as markers of wealth and elite status
- Variations in pottery assemblages between high-status and common households
- Use of elaborate ceramic forms in gift-giving and alliance-building practices
- Regional differences in access to high-quality ceramics reflecting trade networks and social hierarchies
Gender associations in pottery use
- Potential gendered division of labor in pottery production and use
- Associations between specific vessel types and gendered activities (cooking, brewing)
- Variations in pottery assemblages between male and female burials
- Changing gender roles reflected in the adoption of new ceramic forms and uses
Ritual and symbolic functions
- Use of specific pottery types in religious and magical practices
- Ceremonial vessels associated with feasting and communal rituals
- Symbolic meanings of decorative motifs on pottery surfaces
- Deliberate deposition of pottery in votive offerings and foundation deposits
Conservation and restoration
- Preserving and studying Viking Age pottery presents unique challenges for archaeologists and conservators
- Conservation techniques aim to stabilize ceramics while retaining valuable archaeological information
- Restoration and display methods enhance public understanding of Viking material culture
Pottery preservation challenges
- Fragility of low-fired earthenware common in Viking contexts
- Salt damage and delamination of pottery recovered from marine environments
- Loss of surface treatments and decorations due to soil acidity and weathering
- Challenges in preserving organic residues for scientific analysis
Reconstruction techniques
- Careful cleaning and desalination of excavated pottery fragments
- Reassembly of vessel forms using reversible adhesives and gap-filling materials
- Digital reconstruction techniques for fragmentary or distorted vessels
- Ethical considerations in the extent of physical restoration for display purposes
Display and interpretation methods
- Use of supportive mounts and climate-controlled environments for fragile ceramics
- Integration of scientific analysis results in museum displays and interpretations
- 3D printing and augmented reality technologies to enhance visitor engagement with pottery
- Contextual displays linking pottery to broader themes in Viking Age archaeology and history
Key Terms to Review (18)
Bichrome pottery: Bichrome pottery refers to a style of ceramics characterized by the use of two contrasting colors in its decoration, typically achieved through the application of slips or pigments. This technique highlights the artistic expression and cultural significance of pottery during specific historical periods, particularly in the Viking Age, where it played a role in trade and daily life.
Birka: Birka was a significant Viking Age trading hub located on the island of Björkö in Lake Mälaren, Sweden, known for its role as one of the earliest urban settlements in Scandinavia. This site not only served as a bustling marketplace for commerce but also played a key part in connecting various maritime trade routes and fostering cultural exchange during the Viking Age.
Clay: Clay is a natural, fine-grained material composed of small mineral particles, which becomes plastic and moldable when wet and hardens when fired. It serves as the primary raw material in pottery and ceramics, allowing artisans to create functional and decorative objects that have been integral to human culture and daily life across various societies.
Comb decoration: Comb decoration refers to a specific technique used in pottery and ceramics, particularly during the Viking Age, where a comb-like tool is pressed into the surface of the clay to create intricate patterns. This decorative method not only added aesthetic appeal but also allowed for the identification of different styles and regional characteristics in Viking pottery, linking craftsmanship with cultural identity.
Cord decoration: Cord decoration refers to a decorative technique used in pottery where impressions are made using cord or string. This method adds texture and visual interest to ceramic pieces, reflecting both artistic expression and functional purpose in the design of pottery from various cultures.
Early medieval: The early medieval period, also known as the Dark Ages, refers to the time in European history from roughly the 5th to the 10th centuries following the fall of the Western Roman Empire. This era is characterized by a decline in urban life, the fragmentation of political structures, and significant cultural shifts, including the development of new forms of pottery and ceramics that reflect the changing social dynamics and technological advancements of the time.
Gritty ware: Gritty ware refers to a type of ceramic pottery that is characterized by its coarse texture and visible inclusions of sand or other gritty materials. This pottery was commonly produced in Northern Europe during the Viking Age and is significant for understanding daily life, trade, and cultural practices of that period. The presence of gritty ware in archaeological sites provides insights into the local production techniques and the socio-economic dynamics of communities.
Hand-building: Hand-building is a ceramic forming technique where objects are shaped by hand without the use of a potter's wheel. This method allows for greater artistic expression and creativity, enabling artisans to craft unique forms and intricate designs. Hand-building techniques include pinching, coiling, and slab construction, each offering different possibilities for structure and aesthetics.
Hausaland: Hausaland refers to a historical region in West Africa, primarily located in present-day northern Nigeria, where the Hausa people traditionally resided. This area is known for its rich cultural heritage, including its unique pottery and ceramics that have evolved over centuries, showcasing intricate designs and various functional forms used in daily life.
Hilda Ellis Davidson: Hilda Ellis Davidson was a prominent British scholar known for her extensive work on Viking Age mythology, culture, and archaeology. She significantly contributed to the understanding of Norse traditions and their impact on the social practices of the time, particularly in areas like feasting and hospitality, pottery and ceramics, and the economic implications on local populations. Her research not only explored ancient texts but also connected them to archaeological findings, enriching the study of the Viking Age.
Late Iron Age: The Late Iron Age refers to a specific period in European history, typically dated from around 500 BCE to the Roman conquest, characterized by significant cultural, social, and technological changes. It saw the rise of complex societies, trade networks, and advancements in metallurgy, which were particularly prominent in Scandinavia and influenced the development of pottery and ceramics during this time.
Morphology: Morphology refers to the study of the form and structure of objects, including their shape, size, and arrangement. In the context of pottery and ceramics, morphology helps to analyze the physical characteristics of vessels, such as their profile, rim shape, base type, and decorative elements. Understanding these aspects is essential for classifying artifacts, determining their function, and assessing cultural influences in pottery production.
Penny bickle: Penny bickle refers to a type of small, thin, often flat object that is used in the process of making pottery. This term is commonly associated with the Viking Age as it represents tools or methods employed in crafting ceramics. The use of penny bickle in pottery highlights the technological advancements and artistic expression of the period, showcasing how communities interacted with their materials to produce functional and decorative items.
Ritual use: Ritual use refers to the practice of employing specific objects or actions within a ceremonial context to convey spiritual, cultural, or social significance. This concept often highlights the importance of material culture, such as pottery and ceramics, in facilitating and embodying communal practices, beliefs, and traditions. Through ritual use, artifacts take on meanings beyond their functional purpose, symbolizing connections to identity, spirituality, and the past.
Slip: Slip is a mixture of clay and water used in pottery and ceramics, often applied to the surface of items for decoration or as a bonding agent. This fluid mixture can enhance the aesthetic qualities of pottery, allowing for intricate designs, textures, and colors. Slip can also be used to join pieces of clay together before firing, making it an essential component in the creation of ceramic works.
Trade: Trade refers to the exchange of goods and services between people or communities, often facilitating economic growth and cultural interaction. In the context of the Viking Age, trade was a vital component of their economy, allowing them to acquire resources not available in their homeland and distribute their own goods across vast regions. This network of exchange connected the Norse with various cultures, leading to significant cultural and material exchanges that shaped their society.
Typology: Typology is a classification system used to categorize artifacts based on shared characteristics, forms, or functions. This method helps archaeologists and historians analyze and interpret material culture by grouping similar items, allowing for better understanding of technological development, cultural practices, and chronological relationships within a specific period.
Wheel-throwing: Wheel-throwing is a pottery technique where clay is shaped into objects on a rotating wheel, allowing for greater precision and symmetry in the creation of ceramic vessels. This method revolutionized pottery production, enabling artisans to create uniform shapes and sizes that were essential for both functional and decorative purposes.