Pottery

Cretan Pottery Decoration

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The ceramic objects available for the period under study here (10th-20th century) are chiefly comprised of pots and vessels dated to the 17th-20th centuries, during the Turkish occupation of Crete. During this period, the whole population became progressively poorer and craftworks were very simple.

Pottery decoration spontaneously reverted to early forms which had been discontinued in pottery tradition many centuries earlier.

Flat

Flat decoration involves incision, stamping and colouring techniques, in conjunction with glazing.

Incised

Incisions are made in the wet clay with various tools.

Abstract

A fine wooden comb is used to create straight or wavy parallel lines around the pot.

Geometric

A sharp instrument is used to create cross-hatched and repeated patterns.

Representational

The potter draws various subjects such as cypresses and rosettes with a sharp instrument.


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