Producing a Primitive Ceramic Artifact

Isidoro Dal Col carried out several experiments (including with the participation of the Conegliano archaeological group) recreating artifacts using techniques from prehistory, including firing.

Background

• In the Bronze Age, wheel-throwing was not yet known
• It was mostly women who handled the shaping and firing of ceramic containers
• There were many risks of cracking during firing, due to
  • poorly executed joints
  • air bubbles in the clay
  • insufficient temper
• The ceramics were fired in pits, or simply on the ground covered with branches and earth
• Temperatures reached at most 800°C, which increased the risk of breakage
• To compensate for losses, production had to be continuous
• Tens of thousands of shards found at archaeological sites bear witness to this