| Abstract: | The foundation of provenance studies of ceramics is the regional geology. Unfortunately, archaeologists often depend on regional geologic maps for comparative information. In many areas the scale of maps is too small to determine the lithological variation, which is necessary information for a robust provenance study of ceramic materials. Accurate determination requires geologic field mapping and analysis of the lithologies and clay-rich sediments present. In this provenance study of prehistoric ceramics from southwest Ecuador, we have established the lithological variation of both rocks and clay-rich sediments through geological survey. Petrographic analysis of geological samples and ancient ceramic materials determined the variation in both populations and established cases of significant correlation as well as noncorrelation between objects and local materials. Ceramic production at the Ecuadorian sites was complex and involved local production of domestic wares as well as importation of tempering materials and vessels and adoption of foreign decorative motifs. © 1997 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. |
