Ceramic Roster: descriptions

* whole page is new

Back to top: Ceramic Roster: descriptions

Hierarchy of codes

The roster codes reflect varying degrees of complexity.

In some cases, there is always and only a single code, for example for measurement: the only one envisaged in the system refers to the diameter of the rim and the percentage that is left when dealiing with a sherd.

In other cases, there are multiple cateogories, which may be either on a parallel plane or nested. In effect, all categories, whether single or nested, are in turn nested under the higher level category of “ceramic vessel.”

Back to top: Ceramic Roster: descriptions

Parallel categories

In this case, multiple categories are on hte same plane and reflect concurrent features. For example, the category of color subsumes a variety of alternatives, such as interior or exterior, the temper, one or more colors.

Back to top: Ceramic Roster: descriptions

Nested categories (shapes)

In the case of shapes, there are multiple categories that are distributed, hierarchically, in four levels, to which I give distintive terms, as follows.

Back to top: Ceramic Roster: descriptions

1. Main.

This refers to the overall shape and is defined by terms that describe the general use of the vessel. Thus a cup (kāsu in Akkadian) is a small vessel than can be held in one hand for pouring.

Back to top: Ceramic Roster: descriptions