The course provides in-depth training in the principles of thin section ceramic petrography, starting with the introduction of polarizing light microscopy, optical mineralogy, geological petrology, then moving on to cover the wide range of compositional signatures and features of ceramics under an optical microscope by examining archaeological and experimental ceramics, and finally includes its role alongside instrumental analysis, X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microanalysis (SEM) in the interpretation of pottery provenance and manufacturing technology. The complementary approach of thin section petrography in sampling, thin section making, data processing and interpretation is also introduced. It also uses published case studies to demonstrate how scientific data on ceramic provenance and technology can be used to tackle wider archaeological questions such as trade and exchange, the organization of craft production, tradition and identity.
This course is open mainly to third- and fourth-year students and postgraduates with an art or science background in ceramic studies. This course is based on lectures, demonstrations and lab-based practical sessions.