Ceramics from archaeological digs have traditionally played a vital role in the development of chronological sequences, with relative dating techniques such as typology, stratigraphy and seriation all used extensively. Direct radiocarbon dating of pottery is relatively uncommon due to the presence of carbon sources with differing ages, for example geological carbon remaining in the clay after firing, added organic temper, carbon from the fuel of the kiln and exogenous contaminants absorbed from the burial environment
A more promising source is provided by lipid residues absorbed into the pot wall, since these should relate directly to periods of use (Heron & Evershed 1993).An increasingly wide range of organic commodities has been identified from lipidic components of archaeological pottery, including those derived from beeswax, birch bark tar, degraded animal fats, plant oils and marine oils. Lipids absorbed within pottery are excellent candidates for routine C dating as they are widespread at most archaeological sites and often occur in high abundance. Lipids have fast metabolic turnover rates which ensure ages close to the date of death of the organism.
Some of the renown antiquated pottery items form various Museums are displayed below. This is not presented in chronological order.
Cyrprus Jug 1230BC Lourve
Ceramica,_vase_ansato Fiesole Archaeological Museum Italy
Artémis_Orthia_protomés National Archeological Museum Athens
3500BC Ancient city of Girsu Iran Vase_Telloh_Louvre
Bushel_ibex_Louvre_4200 BC Susa Iran
Mayan Pottery Figure
YayoiJar 1-3rd century Tokyo National Museum
Chinese Vase Shanghai Museum
China_Majiaoyao_painted_pottery_2100BC_Neolithic
Jug_Louvre_1230bc Cyprus
Tang Dynasty Vase 618-907 AD
Terracotta_Skyphos_(Deep_Drinking_Cup) 4th century Greece
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