Cord-marked pottery

Grog tempered pottery, Wilmington cord marked, Wilmington Period, AD 350-800, AMNH 110, Pit fill 9-11-69 - Fernbank Museum of Natural History - DSC00188

土器壷-Jar MET 206724

Savannah cord marked bowl, St. Catherines Period, AD 800-1300 - Fernbank Museum of Natural History - DSC00192

YangshaoCordmarkedAmphoraBanpoPhase4800BCEShaanxi

Cord-marked pottery refers to a type of ceramic pottery that is characterized by the impressions made on its surface by wrapping and pressing a cord into the wet clay before it is fired. This technique gives the pottery a distinctive texture that is not only decorative but also provides a better grip on the vessel. Cord-marked pottery is one of the earliest forms of pottery decoration and is found in various archaeological sites around the world, indicating its widespread use across different cultures and time periods.

Origins and Distribution

The origins of cord-marked pottery are believed to date back to the Neolithic period, with some of the earliest examples found in East Asia, particularly in the Jomon culture of Japan. The Jomon period, which spans from about 14,000 B.C. to 300 B.C., is notable for its pottery, among the oldest in the world, and cord-marked pottery is a hallmark of this era. The technique spread from East Asia to other parts of the world, including Europe, where it became associated with the Neolithic Linear Pottery culture (Linearbandkeramik, LBK) around 5500 B.C. to 4500 B.C.

Technique

The technique of creating cord-marked pottery involves pressing a cord, often made of plant fibers, into the surface of wet clay. The potter can wrap the cord around the vessel or press it in patterns, depending on the desired effect. Once the impression is made, the pottery is left to dry and then fired in a kiln, which hardens the clay and preserves the cord-marked texture. This method of decoration is simple yet versatile, allowing for a wide range of patterns and textures.

Significance

Cord-marked pottery is significant for several reasons. Archaeologically, it provides insights into the technological advancements and artistic expressions of ancient cultures. The patterns and methods of cord-marking can indicate cultural connections or differences between neighboring or distant communities. Additionally, the functional aspects of cord-marked pottery, such as improved grip, suggest that these items were not solely decorative but also adapted to everyday use.

Variations

While the basic technique of cord-marking is consistent, variations exist among different cultures and time periods. For example, the Jomon pottery of Japan is known for its elaborate and intricate cord-marked patterns, often combined with other decorative techniques such as incising and appliqué. In contrast, the Linear Pottery culture of Europe tended to use more straightforward, linear cord-marked patterns. These variations reflect the adaptability of the cord-marking technique to different aesthetic preferences and functional requirements.

Conclusion

Cord-marked pottery represents an important technological and artistic innovation in the history of ceramic production. Its widespread distribution and enduring presence in the archaeological record attest to its significance across cultures and epochs. As a subject of study, cord-marked pottery offers valuable insights into the lives of ancient peoples, their technological capabilities, artistic expressions, and cultural interactions.