Gros Jean-Sébastien
University of Thessaly, IAKA Department & University of Montpellier
Quantifying coarse wares of Skala Oropou. First elements of the spatial and chronological distribution.
On the basis of the study of typology carried out on the total coarse wares from the excavations at Skala Oropou, we counted the method of minimum number of individuals (MNI, in our case individual is the vessel) in each stratigraphical unit of the central sector. We excluded the stratigraphical units pertaining to pits with the aim of studying the spatial distribution of these ceramics in ordinary environment. We counted on the whole 1153 individuals, a number sufficient to approach a statistical analysis.
We present firstly the typology of these ceramics constituting the base of our work. Based on morphological criteria the coarse ware pottery consists of 25 types. Bases and feet where counted separately because of the difficulty to recognize vessel types. We also noted particularities as finger impressions on handles or incised decoration.
Thus we can present three different exploitations of the collected data. A spatial distribution on a first level including/understanding 44 areas (buildings, structures, etc). This spatial distribution after examination confirms the general conclusions made on the activity areas from the study of the architectural structures.
For a finer analysis, we studied the distribution within buildings I and IA. For this analysis, we took into account the stratum pertaining to each individual phase as well as the exact position which was noted for specific individuals. We obtain a rather fine image of the ratio of coarse ware and architectural structures in their phase of use or immediately after their occupation.
The third exploitation of the data is that of the distribution of coarse wares in relation to the relative chronology. The classification of the stratigraphical units in the following phases 1, 2/3, 4/5, 6 and 7 in the East part of the central sector (Mazarakis 2002, 185-196), allows a provisional assessment on the developments of the types and the technologies of the Middle Geometric II to the Archaic periods.
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