Search Results (35)

Since 1992, we have promoted the use of descriptions from ethnographic data, including ancient, surviving oral traditions, to aid in explaining the iconography portrayed in pictographs and petroglyphs found in Missouri, particularly those at Picture Cave. The literature to which we refer is from American Indian groups related linguistically and connected to the pre-Columbian inhabitants of Missouri. In addition, we have had on-going conversations with many elder tribal members of the Dhegiha Sioux language group (including the Osage, Quapaw, and Kansa (the Ponca and Omaha are also part of this cognate linguistic group)). With the copious collections of southern Siouan ethnographic accounts, we have been able to explain salient features in the iconography of several of the detailed rock art motifs and vignettes, and propose interpretations. This Midwest region is part of the Cahokia interaction sphere, an area that displays western Mississippian symbolism associated with that found in Missouri rock art as well as on pottery, shell, and copper. Full article

Traditional ethnographic methods have long been employed to study craft practices, yet they often fall short of capturing the full depth of embodied knowledge, material interactions, and procedural workflows inherent in craftsmanship. This paper introduces a digitally enhanced ethnographic framework that integrates Motion Capture, 3D scanning, audiovisual documentation, and semantic knowledge representation to document both the tangible and dynamic aspects of craft processes. By distinguishing between endurant (tools, materials, objects) and perdurant (actions, events, transformations) entities, we propose a structured methodology for analyzing craft gestures, material behaviors, and production workflows. The study applies this proposed framework to eight European craft traditions—including glassblowing, tapestry weaving, woodcarving, porcelain pottery, marble carving, silversmithing, clay pottery, and textile weaving—demonstrating the adaptability of digital ethnographic tools across disciplines. Through a combination of multimodal data acquisition and expert-driven annotation, we present a comprehensive model for craft documentation that enhances the preservation, education, and analysis of artisanal knowledge. This research contributes to the ongoing evolution of ethnographic methods by bridging digital technology with Cultural Heritage studies, offering a robust framework for understanding the mechanics and meanings of craft practices. Full article

Paquimé is a remarkable pre-Hispanic settlement that flourished between the 13th and 15th centuries in northwest Chihuahua, Mexico. This site is recognized for its distinctive fusion of Mesoamerican and Southwestern American cultural traits. Although much of the explanatory models about this settlement’s development and regional role have focused on trade, pottery from the Salado tradition, particularly Polychrome Gila and Polychrome Tonto, has generally been presumed to have originated in the American Southwest. To confirm the interaction between both cultures and contribute to the clarification of the absolute chronology of Paquimé, the geochemical characterization and rock-magnetic characterization of sherds of local and presumably foreign manufacture were carried out, including sherds with manufacture that seems to be the result of the abovementioned relationship. SiO₂ and Al₂O₃ contribute more than 75% to the observed variation. The Casas Grandes pottery shares the geochemical signatures of both local and foreign types. High-coercivity magnetic grains dominate in the foreign-type pottery samples. In contrast, relatively low-coercivity ferrimagnetic grains are the main features of local-type sherds. Essentially similar absolute intensity values were obtained for both potsherd wares. The most probable age intervals obtained for all ceramic samples studied range from 990 AD to 1310 AD, in agreement with previous surveys and local archaeological frameworks. Full article

The convergence of art and technology represents an emerging trend, and it has become crucial to apply advanced technologies to traditional art forms in order to drive innovation in the way art is created, experienced, and understood. The aim of this paper is to explore new paths for the integration of art and technology through the development of a symmetric dual-arm collaborative ceramics robot, thereby facilitating the automation and technologization of ceramics creation. This study utilizes machine vision techniques and path planning algorithms. Specifically, machine vision technology is utilized to identify and locate the clay embryos and to complete the production of purple clay teapots through dual-arm collaboration. The successful application of the pottery robot proves the possibility of art-enabling technology, which helps to promote the innovative development of the entire art field and broaden the forms and boundaries of artistic expression. Full article

During the Islamic period, ceramic workshops were commonly established in settlements throughout the Gharb al-Andalus region (Western Iberia at the time), to produce ceramics for local supply. Along the middle valley of the Tagus river (i.e., nowadays central Portugal), hundreds of Islamic ceramic sherds, either glazed or common wares, were recovered over different archaeological excavations. At the archaeological site of Serradinho, located at Muge (Municipality of Salvaterra de Magos, Santarem District, Portugal), a fortuitous finding was unearthed during agricultural works in which ceramic sherds from the Emiral (8–9th century) to the Almoravid (mid–12th century) period were recorded. The uninterrupted time lapse evidenced by these ceramic artefacts is a one-off opportunity to trace back early Islamic ceramic production and to link it with the long-lasting ceramic tradition documented at Muge by ethnographic studies. In this study, insights into the provenance of raw materials and the pottery-manufacturing processes will be approached by means of different optical and analytical methods, namely Optical Microscopy (OM), X-Ray Diffraction (XRD), X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF), Scanning Electron Microscope, Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (SEM-EDS) and granulometric tests on sediments offering some interesting parallels between archaeological and modern ceramic production. Results suggested that most ceramics were locally produced, while others were imported into the settlement during the Islamic Middle Ages. Moreover, data indicate that a locally available raw material which is still used nowadays for the production of traditional ceramics had been employed. This result confirms the exploitation of the same raw material over time, linking Islamic Middle Ages ceramic production to the modern one. Full article

The archaeological materials from the Velika Humska Čuka site on the northern fringe of the Niš Basin in southeastern Serbia were analyzed to reveal the provenance of ceramics and other artifacts. This study focused on the elemental analysis of 61 samples, including local clay pits, potsherds, and whole vessels. Samples were chosen based on stylistic and typological characteristics to distinguish local and “foreign” pottery. Elemental analysis was conducted using energy-dispersive X-ray fluorescence (EDXRF) spectrometry, complemented by principal component analysis (PCA) for data interpretation. Results indicated that the majority of pottery samples, over 80%, were produced using local clay from deposits near the site. However, approximately 20% of the analyzed vessels were made using clay from deposits near the Bubanj site, 8 km south of Velika Humska Čuka. A vessel on a hollow high foot combining stylistic elements of the Bubanj-Hum I group and Early Eneolithic Pannonian groups was made of clay not sourced from any identified local deposits, suggesting its non-local origin. While the predominance of local materials suggests self-sufficient production, the use of non-local clays and stylistic influences highlights long-distance connections and exchanges. The study emphasizes the importance of Velika Humska Čuka in understanding the development of ceramic traditions and the cultural dynamics of the Early Eneolithic in the Central Balkans. Full article

Defining groups of ceramic objects from archaeological excavations is a crucial and primary practice in the study of settlements, providing information related to ceramic technology, provenance, and interactions, among others. This process begins with a macroscopic analysis of each fragment, identifying common features to define ceramic fabrics. Regularly, this procedure requires further analytical techniques to refine the attribution of each ceramic object to the corresponding fabric. The Early Neolithic site of Vale Pincel I in Sines, Portugal, dates to the second and third quarters of the sixth millennium BC. The earliest examples of ceramica impressa, described by patterned impressions on the surface (impresso pottery), in Portugal were found here. These artifacts are indicative of the Western Mediterranean Basin cycle pre-Cardial ceramic tradition. From the numerous Neolithic ceramic fragments discovered at Vale Pincel I, archaeologists identified 42 fragments, categorizing them into 2 main groups (A and B) through visual analysis, while a third group (C) remained unclassified. Group A, thick ceramic body with reddish hues and very friable surfaces; Group B, thin ceramic body with greyish to black shades and a cohesive appearance. With the aim to resolve the classification of group C ceramics, this study uses a multi-analytical methodology, combining Optical Microscopy (OM), Wavelength Dispersive X-Ray Fluorescence Spectroscopy (WD-XRF), and X-Ray Diffraction (XRD). Integrating the analytical data with previously obtained archaeological information, Group C fragments were attributed to Groups A and B, demonstrating the absence of a distinct third group in Vale Pincel I, highlighting the effectiveness of analytical techniques in ceramic studies, and contributing to a deeper understanding of Neolithic ceramic technology in the Western Mediterranean Basin. Full article

Between the 5th and 8th centuries AD, several (semi-)nomadic populations invaded ancient Tokharistan (Central Asia), introducing political, socio-economic and cultural changes that also affected pottery production. The study of ceramic materials thereby represents a useful tool for shedding light on the transformations related to such historical events. Unfortunately, no systematic research on ceramics from this region and this period has been conducted to date, and the information available mostly concerns the formal characteristics and imprecise relative chronologies. Aiming to contribute to the knowledge of Early Medieval pottery production in the territory north of the Amu Darya, we present a preliminary investigation on tableware and common wares recovered in the settlements of Khosijat Tepe, Shurob Kurgan, Balalyk Tepe and Dabil Kurgan. This paper provides new data on the vessels’ morphological/stylistic characteristics and relative chronologies, allowing their contextualisation and categorisation. In order to explore the manufacturing processes and their provenance (production areas), a multidisciplinary approach that combines WD-XRF, powder XRD and thin-section optical microscopy was carried out, allowing us to determine the chemical, mineralogical and petrographic compositions, respectively. The results suggest that most vessels consist of local/regional products. The choice and processing of the raw materials are broadly similar. However, slight variations are observed among the ceramics from distinct sites, related to the procurement of clayey sediments from different sources. Although a certain degree of morphological and technological continuity regarding the preceding Kushano-Sasanian pottery tradition is attested for some functional categories, new shapes and decorations appear, confirming the introduction of new practices in the region. Full article

This study develops a sustainable evaluation framework for Yixing Zisha pottery design schemes generated by Artificial Intelligence Generated Content (AIGC) technology, emphasizing the integration of cultural heritage preservation with innovation. As a traditional Chinese craft and a recognized element of intangible cultural heritage (ICH), Yixing Zisha pottery is celebrated for its cultural depth and unique design techniques. Guided by emotional design theory, the framework assesses aesthetic, functional, and emotional dimensions through hierarchical analysis. Using the Delphi method and Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP), primary and secondary indicators were identified and weighted based on expert consensus. AIGC technology, underpinned by advanced AI algorithms, generates culturally authentic yet innovative design solutions, striking a balance between tradition and modernity. The findings reveal that this approach enhances design diversity, functionality, and efficiency while fostering global cultural awareness. By providing practical guidance for integrating AIGC technology into traditional craftsmanship, the research offers a replicable model for other traditional crafts and contributes to the theoretical advancement of sustainable cultural heritage practices. By bridging the gap between digital innovation and heritage preservation, this study addresses the critical need for sustainable strategies in the creative industries. Full article

With the acceleration of urbanization, many traditional buildings have been dismantled and built indiscriminately, resulting in a uniform urban landscape. The problem of urban microclimate has been aggravated, and the renovation of historic districts, especially including the renewal of microclimate, has become an important component of sustainable urban renewal. The old commercial street in Huili Ancient City is used as an example in this paper. Through literature research, we note that previous studies have mainly examined the renewal of historic districts from the perspective of the old city environment, while most of the traditional neighborhood renewal designs have neglected the wind and heat environments. Combining the limitations of previous studies and field research, we summarized the current problems of the neighborhood and developed specific renovation strategies for the identified problems in terms of historical and cultural heritage, the relationship between the old and the new, and the layout of green building technologies. In addition, the green building strategy was used to optimize the microclimate environment of the neighborhood, and the wind and heat environment simulation was conducted to evaluate the modeling of the renovated neighborhood. The results show that the outdoor wind environment is better in winter than in summer, and the natural ventilation environment of the neighborhood could be optimized by optimizing the building layout to form an alleyway wind. The indoor wind–heat environment simulation was carried out with the Green Pottery Experience Hall as an example, and the indoor and outdoor air circulation and ventilation were good, and the comfort of the human thermal environment was high. This paper explores the updating strategy of the historic district in the transition zone between old and new and the wind–heat environment simulation and evaluation of green building renovation, which provides a new perspective for the related renovation research and the optimization strategy of the microclimate environment in the district. Full article

The present work is focused on developing and implementing a minimally invasive methodology for material characterization of traditional pottery from Yucatan, México. The developed methodology, which combines elemental (X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy (XRF), inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectroscopy (ICP-OES), and Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS)) and molecular (fiber optic reflectance spectroscopy (FORS)) spectroscopic analytical techniques, allowed for the characterization of contemporary pottery objects manufactured following traditional recipes in the town of Uayma, Yucatán, México and raw materials associated with the pottery manufacturing process. The results allowed us to detect and estimate the number of selected elements and helped to infer the presence of complex materials such as iron oxides, aluminosilicates, and calcium carbonate. Additionally, the analysis indicated two pottery groups separated by their elemental and molecular composition, corresponding to the sources of raw materials employed by the potters. It confirmed the absence of toxic compounds in ceramic objects, a significant concern for potters, as some objects are intended for domestic use. The research findings provide reassurance about the safety of these products. Full article

The pottery wheel machine is an essential piece of equipment in ceramics manufacturing. This paper presents the design of an intelligent pottery wheel machine aimed at addressing the issues of low clay material utilization and the challenges of pottery throwing operations. Traditional techniques require exceptional craftsmanship and proficient mechanical operation, and existing pottery wheel machines still demand attention to equipment usage and clay material knowledge. The intelligent pottery wheel machine integrates central positioning, automatic clay feeding, and clay storage. The pull mechanism stores and precisely feeds clay, regulating usage and minimizing excess. The automated settings of the clay storage and power push system replace the need for manual assessment of clay density and quality, ensuring balanced and high-quality clay extrusion. The continuous feeding setting allows for automatic addition of clay, saving replenishment time and reducing the labor intensity of adding clay. The lifting mechanism ensures that the clay body remains centered, avoiding repeated manual adjustments and allowing users to focus on creating pottery rather than spending excessive time mastering the centering technique. The machine’s lightweight, modular design reduces clay waste, making the process more sustainable. By saving clay materials and improving throwing efficiency, it enhances the success rate of throwing. Full article

Arid and semi-arid areas are suffering from declines in fresh water availability, making food security in these regions strongly dependent on the adaptability of agricultural production to the minimum usage of irrigation water. In response to this critical need, efforts have been directed towards enhancing irrigation efficiency and exploring innovative clay-based subsurface irrigation systems. These systems use clay materials as porous emitters and operate on the principle of capillary water movement from the pottery to the root zone, effectively reducing water evaporation and demonstrating significant water-saving potential. This article presents the results of a systematic literature review, with a specific focus on identifying recent developments and innovations in clay-based subsurface irrigation technologies, describing cases of applicability and indicating directions for future research. This review follows the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines and involved the screening of 233 articles that were found through searches on the databases Web of Science and Science Direct combined with searches of Google Scholar and citation searches. As a result, 58 research articles were investigated. The webtool Rayyan was used for the screening of the articles and the synthesis of the results. The spectrum of clay-based irrigation systems identified in the investigated articles includes traditional methods such as clay pot and clay pipe irrigation as well as more recent advancements in the field such as Subsurface Irrigation with Ceramic Emitters (SICE), Self-regulating Low-Energy Clay-based Irrigation (SLECI), and Ceramic Patch Subsurface Drip Irrigation Line (CP-SDIL) and pottery dripper technologies. This paper offers a comprehensive analysis of each irrigation system, highlighting their main characteristics, advantages, and limitations. Particular attention is paid to the reported outcomes related to yield responses, water use efficiency, and suitability for various agricultural applications. This review indicates as a primary benefit of these systems their potential to allow water conservation, which is especially advantageous in regions with a restricted irrigation water supply. However, a major drawback is the challenge of scaling these systems effectively. Hence, the recommended areas for future research centre on the necessity of substantial economic assessments of and discussion on the potential social impact to promote the scalability of clay-based irrigation systems. Full article

Machine learning algorithms have revolutionized data analysis by uncovering hidden patterns and structures. Clustering algorithms play a crucial role in organizing data into coherent groups. We focused on K-Means, hierarchical, and Self-Organizing Map (SOM) clustering algorithms for analyzing homogeneous datasets based on archaeological finds from the middle phase of Pre-Pottery B Neolithic in Southern Levant (10,500–9500 cal B.P.). We aimed to assess the repeatability of these algorithms in identifying patterns using quantitative and qualitative evaluation criteria. Thorough experimentation and statistical analysis revealed the pros and cons of each algorithm, enabling us to determine their appropriateness for various clustering scenarios and data types. Preliminary results showed that traditional K-Means may not capture datasets’ intricate relationships and uncertainties. The hierarchical technique provided a more probabilistic approach, and SOM excelled at maintaining high-dimensional data structures. Our research provides valuable insights into balancing repeatability and interpretability for algorithm selection and allows professionals to identify ideal clustering solutions. Full article

The pottery produced from the Rujište deposit in Serbia has been protected under the guidance of UNESCO and the Sector for Intangible Cultural Heritage of Serbia since 2019. A study was conducted to evaluate the mineralogical characteristics of the raw clay from this deposit. This study used various techniques, such as X-ray diffraction (XRD), infrared (IR) spectroscopy, X-ray fluorescence (XRF), and differential thermal analysis (DTA) to characterize the clay. This study found that the clay contained mostly clay minerals (56.3%–41.9%), with illite, smectite, and chlorite as the predominant phases. Other phases identified were quartz, feldspars, carbonates, and iron-bearing minerals (43.8%–58.1%). The chemical analyses revealed a high abundance of silica (>52 wt.%) and alumina (~16 wt.%), with Fe₂O₃ (~6 wt.%), K₂O (~2.8 wt.%), and a similar content of MgO as the main constituents. The physical features that were investigated included the granulometry (clay: ~31%–44%, silt: ~ 26%–23%, and sand: ~ 42%–32%), specific surface area (97 to 107 m² g⁻¹), cation exchange capacity (12.5–13.7 mmol 100 g⁻¹), and color (yellowish to moderate brown). The preliminary results suggest that most of the raw clay from the Rujište deposit might be suitable for use in traditional pottery manufacture. Full article