Athenian Vase Construction: A Potter's Analysis
About this eBook
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 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.
