Use this URL to cite or link to this record in EThOS: https://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.685492
Title: The correlation of technological and stylistic changes, and society, in the production of attic geometric and orientalising finewares
Author: Smyrnaios, Ioannis
ISNI:       0000 0004 5915 1911
Awarding Body: Cardiff University
Current Institution: Cardiff University
Date of Award: 2015
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Abstract:
This thesis investigates stylistic and technological changes in the production of Attic Geometric and Orientalising finewares (c. 900 – 620 BC), and their relationship with society. The transition from the abstract motifs of the Early and Middle Geometric styles to the figurative representations of the Late Geometric and Orientalising styles are examined in conjunction with the technological advances in the ceramic chaîne opératoire, and the social changes that characterise these periods. According to previous studies, the social developments in the Athenian polis between the 9th and 7th centuries BC left traces in the archaeological record suggesting competition among different elite groups. This social competition was expressed through funerary rites, which were subject to continuous changes all across the Attic Early Iron Age. The consumption of decorated finewares in such rites and other important social occasions demarcated the social position of the consumers/users of fine decorated pottery, while ceramic styles adapted to accommodate the changing nature of social demands. An important manifestation of stylistic change was the dominance of the figurative style in pottery decoration during the beginning of the Late Geometric period (c.760 BC). The original hypothesis of this research project is based on the fact that decoration was only part of the total production sequence of Attic Geometric and Orientalising pottery; therefore, it could be likely that the social changes noted during these periods triggered broader advances in ceramic technologies employed for the production of such finewares. This thesis moves away from traditional stylistic approaches and employs a technological approach based on the chaîne opératoire theory in order to explore the behaviour of Attic Early Iron Age potters and their response towards changing consumption demands during an era of significant social transformations.
Supervisor: Not available Sponsor: Not available
Qualification Name: Thesis (Ph.D.) Qualification Level: Doctoral
EThOS ID: uk.bl.ethos.685492  DOI: Not available
Keywords: CC Archaeology ; NX Arts in general
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