Pottery

DEFINITION

A general term dating to ancient times that includes ceramics or fired clay such as earthenware, stoneware and raku. Throughout history, pottery has served both utilitarian and aesthetic purposes. It is written that "pottery, as perhaps no other medium, reflects the culture of its maker. Archaeologists often find it their most helpful tool in classifying peoples and reconstructing past events." (Lamb, Intro.) Pottery fragments as part of drinking vessels are documented to the sixth millenium BC in Arpachiya near the Upper Tigris River. In 20th-century American art, pottery has become an accepted fine-art medium. Especially noted in this time period are Anna and Albert Valentien, George Ohr, R. Guy Cowan, Maria Martinez, Popovi Da; Nampeyo (the Old Lady), William Dickey King and Charles Loloma. Sources: Kimberley Reynolds and Richard Seddon, "Illustrated Dictionary of Art Terms"; Brian S. McMillan, &#39;Cultural Influences from Early Summerian Egypt&#39; from the book "Ancient Iraq" by P.R.S. Moorey; Susan Lamb, "A Guide to Pueblo Pottery"<br><br>Objects, and especially vessels ? pots, which are made from fired clay, including earthenware, stoneware and porcelain. Pots are functional ceramic objects, and may take such forms as plates, bowls, cups, jars, vases, urns, ewers (pitchers), bottles, and boxes. A pottery can also be a place where pots are made.