SKEUOMORPHISM IN 3RD MILLENNIUM BC POTTERY FROM WESTERN CENTRAL ANATOLIA: METAL VES-SELS AND THEIR REFLECTIONS

Abstract

The intensification of metallurgical production and the rise of social stratification that started around the end of the 4th millennium BC are well-represented in archaeological literature. During this period, numerous changes in architecture, burial customs, and ceramic manufacture can be detected in archaeological levels. Most of the analyses so far conducted on ceramics have focused on ware groups, forms, decorations, and functions, with less attention traditionally paid to the process of skeuomorphism, which has often been described as 'imitation'. More recent studies have shown that the transfer of techniques, shapes and decorative elements between media and production processes (e.g. from metal or stone vessels to ceramic vessels) played an important economic role in ancient societies. This article employs the pottery of the Early Bronze Age from inland Western Anatolian, to understand the impact of metal vessel manufacture on ceramic production. Examples of skeuomorphism are provided, particularly noting surface colours, handle attachments and decoration, and an analysis made of the contexts of retrieval to suggest the possible reasons for their presence.