Understanding Anglo-Saxon Pottery and Technological Continuity

It is a common myth that during the period between the Roman and Carolingian Empires, Europeans, particularly in Britain, lived like primitive people. While at times they may have reverted to primitive techniques, the evidence shows that the Anglo-Saxons retained and even developed skills in various crafts. This article will explore the actual state of Anglo-Saxon pottery and the technological continuity during this period.

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Anglo-Saxon Pottery and Technological Continuity

The belief that Britons of the Anglo-Saxon era could not make pottery, and had to reuse Roman clay pots from tombs, is unequivocally incorrect. While it is true that early Anglo-Saxon pottery may not have matched the high standards of Roman craftsmanship, there is substantial evidence that the Anglo-Saxons possessed their own pottery traditions and technologies.

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Anglo-Saxon Pottery Innovations

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Anglo-Saxon pottery developed significantly over the centuries. It is known that the Anglo-Saxons only started to use the pottery wheel around the 9th century, though some earthenware and handmade pottery existed earlier. The wheel-made pottery that emerged around 900 CE was a significant step forward in pottery production. While the quality may not have reached the standards of modern pottery, it was a considerable improvement from earlier periods.

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However, the pottery production techniques did experience a setback during a brief period when the wheel was not in use. In the aftermath of this period, Anglo-Saxon pottery was once again made by hand. Nevertheless, once the potters' wheel was reintroduced, it marked a return to refined and functional pottery production. By the 7th century, the use of the wheel had become widespread, leading to a resurgence in high-quality pottery production.

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Ancient Anglo-Saxon earthenware may not have reached the standards of modern or even Wedgwood pottery, but it did exist. The style of Anglo-Saxon pottery varied across different regions and cultural groups, showcasing the adaptability and resilience of medieval craftsmen.

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Historians like Bryan Ward-Perkins argue that the technology and craftsmanship of post-Roman Britain did not simply retrogress to a pre-Roman level. Instead, the period saw a decline below even the pre-Roman technological standard. Ward-Perkins suggests that it took until the late 7th century for Anglo-Saxon Britain to reach the technological complexity of pre-Roman Britain.

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Other Technological Developments

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The period also witnessed advancements in other areas such as jewelry making, as evidenced by Burgundian jewelry, the reconstitution of the palace of the Visigoth kings in Toulouse, Lombard altars, and paintings like the Annunciation to Zacharias in Benevento, Italy. These artifacts demonstrate the continued cultural and technological richness of the period, negating the stereotype of a time of stagnation and ignorance.

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Note on Pottery Quality and Techniques

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It is important to note that while the quality of Anglo-Saxon pottery may not meet the high standards of modern or industrial pottery, it was not primitive. Craftsmen and workers retained the knowledge to make their wares, including ironworking, farming, and pottery. This continuity of knowledge is a critical aspect of understanding the period and the people who lived through it.

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The period often labeled as the 'Dark Ages' was not characterized by technological regression but rather by a period of transformation and adaptation. The renaissance of pottery and other crafts in the Anglo-Saxon era is a testament to the resilience and ingenuity of the community.

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Key Takeaways

" " " "Anglo-Saxon pottery existed and was advanced given the context of the time. " "The pottery wheel was reintroduced and pottery quality improved. " "Anglo-Saxon society retained and continued technological knowledge. " " " "

The reality of Anglo-Saxon pottery and the technological continuity during this period is a story of adaptation and resilience, rather than a period defined by regression or ignorance. It is crucial to approach historical narratives with a critical eye and a deep understanding of the context in which they developed.