This page is dedicated to describing several different types of pottery.
Course wares-
This is the type of pottery I personally make. My wares are fired in simple bonfire kilns. They are mainly pre-Roman styles. Also known as kitchen wares, these wares are plain unglazed earthenware vessels that often vary in color due to the different types of clay and various firing methods. They are functional and have changed little over time. They are often used in the military.
Campanian wares-
These early Roman wares were originally Greek. They are everyday black, glossy tableware glazed with a slip of fine clay. Their sales were surpassed by that of terra sigillata around 50 B.C.
Terra sigillata wares-
This relatively new type of pottery is factory-made. It is cheap, decorative red pottery formed by pouring the clay into a mold. It was first produced in Arezzo, but later production spread to Gaul. Eventually it was produced in many places around the empire. It has become a problem for traditional potters like me because its popularity has made it difficult for us to make a living.
Fine wares-
This pottery is thin-walled and decorative. It is usually used to produce beakers and cups. Special finishes were created by colored slips, decoration, and glazes.
Types of vessels:
Mortaria-
These are mortars for food preparation. They are large, strong bowls with flange for easy gripping on the sides and a spout. There is grit incorperated into the interior surface to strengthen and roughen it. Before being fired, it is often stamped with the potter's name. These bowls are often traded over long distances.
Amphorae-
These vessels are large, often carrying 24-30 liters, and are used to hold wine, oil, and fish sauce. They are wide at the girth, have a narrow opening for a cork, have two handles near the mouth, and have a knob or spike at the bottom for lifting or pouring. They are carried sideways or upright. Their style has not changed much over the years. They are used all over the empire. The main body is produced on a wheel, and the handles and neck are added afterwords.
