Pots equal people: tracing communities of practice via minute variation approach
摘要
The concept embodied in “Pots equal People,” which explores the correlation between pottery and human societies, has sparked lively debates among researchers over an extended period, primarily associating this expression with the presumed relationship between ethnic groups and pottery. Despite critiques of this simplified relationship, it remains a foundational topic in archeological ceramic studies. This paper reframes the equation as “Pots equal Potters,” shifting the focus toward understanding the roles of potters within their communities and their contributions to cultural and anthropological dynamics. It emphasizes the application of micro-morphology to analyze variations within ceramic assemblages, particularly concentrating on a single ceramic type. By adopting a meticulous examination of sub-typological variations and employing a detailed, three-phase analytical approach, the study aims to identify production units, evaluate production intensity, and uncover connections with distinct communities of practice.