Documenting traces left on ceramic surfaces by tools used for treatment and/or decoration: an experimental approach

This study explores the role of experimental archaeology in investigating ancient ceramic production techniques. Utilising materials analysed by Rammo (2017) from the fortified settlements of Asva, Ridala, and Iru in Estonia, we focus on two types of impressions on sherds dated to the beginning of the 1st millennium BC. Our aim was to test the hypotheses concerning the execution methods of these impressions and evaluate the effectiveness of experimental methodologies in recreating them. Through an experimental protocol, we produced clay tablets to simulate the decorative techniques identified by Riina Rammo. Key findings indicate that decorating at the leather-hard stage, as opposed to the soft clay stage, yields notable differences in the visibility and depth of impressions. While our experiments confirmed some aspects of Rammo’s hypotheses regarding Type 2 and Type 4 impressions, discrepancies emerged that suggest variations in pressure application and timing may significantly affect the resulting patterns. This study emphasises the value of experimental archaeology in hypothesis testing, while also highlighting topics for further research, particularly regarding post-firing treatments and their implications for understanding the functional and aesthetic roles of decorations on ceramic vessels.