Abstract
The previous chapter defined ethnoarchaeology and experimental archaeology and discussed their relationship to archaeological inference. This chapter outlines the role of pottery use-alteration studies in archaeology, focusing on how they can be employed to determine technofunction. Research of pottery technofunction focuses on two different components of pottery utilization: intended and actual use. Recent work in each area is reviewed, and it is argued that research that reconstructs how pottery was actually used, principally through use-alteration analysis, provides the best information for reconstructing past activity. The final section of the chapter outlines a framework for pottery use alteration. Drawing on lithic use-wear research, this framework incorporates all forms of ceramic alteration (use- and nonuse-related) from pottery manufacture through archaeological recovery.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
