Message on the pot: Sgraffito pottery decoration and group identities in the medieval Balkans

Abstract

The meaning of decoration has undoubtedly represented one of the central issues of archaeology since its formative years. It is equally important in pottery studies. The archaeological approach to the classification of decoration, exemplified in the seminal work of Anna Shepard (1956: 255–305), included formal, technical, decorative, and symbolic indicators, thus emphasizing lines of analysis of decoration and a broad platform of interpretation. Over time, the interpretation of designs has been considered from different perspectives, among which the following stand out as constantly current: (relative) chronology, technology, cultural context, and symbolism. All of the above, and more, covered by the term (decorative) style, is are part of a complex information exchange process that ultimately leads to the identification of social groups and the determination of their status