Advances in the Method and Application of Ceramic Petrography: international perspectives on key archaeological questions, Part I

Over the last 30 years the archaeological application of petrographic analysis has gained methodological and theoretical traction. Ceramic petrography, in particular, has emerged as a key methodological tool because it provides insights into technological practice, the choice and manipulation of raw materials by ancient potters, and methods of forming and firing conditions. Petrography has the advantage of being a visual technique whose observations are easily combined with macroscopic study of fabric, form, and decoration. A holistic approach that combines such observation with chemical (e.g. INAA, ICP-MS, XRF), mineralogical (especially XRD), and microstructural (SEM) data, in addition to geological information provides a powerful analytical strategy for understanding the social, political, economic, and environmental contexts of ceramic production, distribution, and consumption. Such information is vital for developing robust interpretations of ancient social organization and change. We have invited a group of scholars whose work highlights advances in ceramic petrography for understanding, technological traditions and change, identity, ceramic production and exchange, migration, and the social context of consumption. Many of the papers highlight new methods for combining petrography with other analytical strategies to address social process. As such, the session provides an analytical exchange among researchers with diverse intellectual backgrounds and research interests.