Evaluation of ceramics Professional artisanship as a tool for archaeological interpretation

Abstract

This paper aims to explore how professional artisanship can contribute to archaeological interpretations through the examination of ceramic artefacts based on the experience of a trained producer of ceramics. Certain forms of practical artisanal knowledge and practical levels of skill are defined within the area of theoretical knowledge known as tacit knowledge. The purpose of this proposal is to investigate whether professional artisanal skill can contribute to archaeological interpretation, and if so, how. The method that was used during this investigation is known as artisanal interpretation.The paper includes artisanal analyses conducted by the author on five ceramic artefacts from a closed find dated to the Roman Iron Age (200–300 AD) in the parish of Sjogersta in the municipality of Skövde, Västergötland, Sweden. The need to broaden our current archaeological interpretation methods is discussed. The work presented here makes it clear that there are aspects of archaeological ceramic artefacts that can only be appreciated by a trained professional ceramist. Finally, the paper discusses how an artisanal perspective can contribute to cooperation between professional artisans and archaeologists which, if extended further, could lead to more detailed and complex views of the past and its society, economy and crafts.