Fabric

Fabric is the term archaeological scientists use synonymously with 'paste'. Analyses of the pottery fabrics allow researchers to identify the paste recipe potters use to create their pottery. Fabric analysis is done by investigating the two basic components of the paste. These are the matrix that is composed of clay minerals less than 0.02mm across, and the inclusions that are larger than the clay minerals.

Particular combinations of these two components are referred to as 'paste recipes'. Paste recipes mainly depend on the choice of raw materials used by the potters and on the choice of preparation techniques. Both of these components are modified by the firing conditions when the pottery is fired.

Sample 07 Fabric

The fabric of Sample 07 consists of very fine clay with no inclusions. 

Sample 16 Fabric

Sample 16 Fabric

The fabric of Sample 16 consists of medium-fine clay with gold mica inclusion. 

Sample 36 Fabric

The fabric of Sample 36 consists of fine clay with gold mica inclusion. 

Sample 37 Fabric

The fabric of Sample 37 consists of fine clay with gold mica and quartz inclusions. 

Sample 41 Fabric

The fabric of Sample 41 consists of fine clay with gold mica inclusion. 

Sample 55 Fabric

The fabric of Sample 55 consists of fine clay with gold mica inclusion. 

Sample 58 Fabric

The fabric of Sample 58 consists of coarse clay with gold mica inclusion. 

Sample 61 Fabric

The fabric of Sample 61 consists of coarse clay with gold mica inclusion. 

Sample 62 Fabric

The fabric of Sample 62 consists of coarse clay with gold mica inclusion. 

Questions to think about,

Can you observe the difference between the fabrics? Do you think there would be any difference in the fabrics if the potters had used the same raw materials?
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