Athenian Vase Construction A Potter's Analysis

Description

Modern studies of ancient Greek vases have most often focused on the iconography of the painted images. Yet we know that in antiquity the potting of the vases was held in at least as much esteem as the painting, and sometimes potters proudly signed their wares. This book analyzes the construction methods used by Attic potters in the forming of their vases. Based on her study of Greek pottery sherds and vases and on her profound hands-on knowledge of pottery construction techniques, including experiments with the potting of Attic shapes, Toby Schreiber describes how ancient Greek potters constructed their vases. Drawn in large part from vases and fragments in the collection of the Getty Museum, the many photographs that accompany the text show how much even seemingly insignificant sherds may reveal about technique when studied by someone knowledgeable about potting. The drawings—all done by the author—demonstrate step by step with admirable clarity how the potter executed his craft. The in-depth look at the techniques of pottery-construction techniques presented in this book is bound to increase modern admiration for the abilities of ancient Greek potters. Written by a master potter, this is a book both for those who know little or nothing about potting techniques and for those who already have an understanding of these matters.