Introduction

‘Stylistic’ analysis of pottery refers to the generation and interpretation of data emphasizing observed qualities of production and appearance such as form, finish, and decoration. It includes a broad range of methodologies that, in a general way, contrast with studies focused on ceramic technology. Whereas studies of ceramic chemistry and composition focus on source materials and technological qualities (see Pottery Analysis: Chemical; Petrology and Thin-Section Analysis), stylistic studies deal with artifacts’ style.

In early archaeological work, ‘style’ often equated with artistic expression because in practice it was the decorated sherds that received the most attention. Today the term ‘style’ is variable in archaeological usage but usually has a broader meaning.

Characteristics of style reflect preferential choices of the artisan, which are attributable to a combination of cultural norms and the individual’s esthetic expression and skill. In contrast, technical choices are based on performance goals. Unlike specialized technological analyses, stylistic data are obtained mostly through macro-observation.

Stylistic analysis is not a field with any definite boundary, however. Style and function are opposites in concept, but in reality most traits of pottery reflect aspects of both, to greater or lesser degree. Most modern ‘stylistic’ research includes information that is primarily technological or functional. For instance, a basic pottery study will often record technological variables such as temper types, which are the nonclay particles mixed with the clay, as well as functional variables such as morphological types, for example, ‘bottle’ or ‘griddle’. Studies focused on vessel functions, in fact, derive interpretations from stylistic data, in tandem with functional ethnographic analogies and use-wear evidence. The conceptual contrasts between stylistic and technological/functional research may correspond to differences in investigative techniques but become blurred during formulation of integrated conclusions about pottery as a reflection of culture and society (see Ceramics and Pottery).