Temper

Definition

Temper refers to the materials added to clay in pottery to improve its properties during the shaping and firing processes. This mixture can enhance strength, reduce shrinkage, and prevent cracking by providing additional stability. Different types of temper, such as sand, grog, or organic materials, affect the final appearance and texture of prehistoric pottery.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Tempering materials are crucial in prehistoric pottery as they directly affect the clay's workability and firing behavior.
2. Adding temper helps prevent cracking by accommodating the thermal expansion that occurs during firing.
3. Common tempering materials include sand, crushed shell, and plant fibers, each contributing unique qualities to the finished piece.
4. The choice of temper not only influences the strength and durability of the pottery but also plays a role in its aesthetic qualities.
5. Different cultures utilized specific tempering techniques that reflect their available resources and technological knowledge.

Review Questions

• How does the addition of temper affect the physical properties of prehistoric pottery during the firing process?
  • The addition of temper significantly impacts the physical properties of prehistoric pottery by improving its strength and reducing shrinkage. By incorporating materials such as sand or grog, the clay can withstand the stresses of firing without cracking or deforming. This is especially important in prehistoric contexts where technology was limited, making the right choice of temper crucial for successful pottery making.
• Evaluate the significance of different tempering materials used in prehistoric pottery across various cultures.
  • Different cultures employed various tempering materials based on their geographic location and available resources, which had significant implications for their pottery styles. For example, some societies might use local sand for its abundance, while others may incorporate crushed shells to enhance texture. This choice not only affected the structural integrity but also reflected cultural identity, technological advancement, and resource management practices within each community.
• Synthesize how temper contributes to both the functionality and artistry of prehistoric pottery, and discuss its broader implications on archaeological interpretations.
  • Temper plays a vital role in balancing both functionality and artistry in prehistoric pottery. Functionally, it enhances durability and workability, allowing artisans to create vessels that could withstand daily use. Artistically, the choice of temper affects surface texture and visual appeal, reflecting cultural aesthetics and practices. These attributes help archaeologists interpret social structures, trade networks, and cultural practices within ancient societies, shedding light on their technological advancements and artistic expressions.

Related terms

Clay Body: The mixture of clay and other materials used to create pottery, determining its texture, color, and firing characteristics.

Grog: Crushed, pre-fired pottery that is added to clay as temper to improve its structural integrity and reduce warping during firing.

Firing: The process of heating pottery in a kiln to harden it and achieve desired physical and chemical changes.