Exploring the Broad Spectrum: Vegetal Inclusions in Early Neolithic Eastern Balkan Pottery

Abstract Why was “chaff temper” used in pottery production? The possible reasoning behind the practice of intentionally adding organic matter (various plant parts and plant-containing materials) to clay paste when making is explored by studying four Early Neolithic open settlements. Located contrasting regions, northwest southwest Bulgaria, they have geological settings, altitude, climate, “pottery styles.” Ceramic fragments containing vegetal remains (charred, semi-charred parts, imprints, phytoliths) found both on surface vessels within body are studied hand specimens, thin-sections using scanning electron microscopy. Whether addition “organic an actual functional prerequisite (e.g. caused technological limitations local clays, vessels’ use, etc.), how interpret variable contents types fabrics, main questions discussed a broader context. observed variability raises awareness series potential biases interpreting Southeast European pottery. This study not only tackles interrelation between two major cycles – ceramic technology agriculture but also reveals examine synergies specifically technological, agricultural, environmental aspects. It demonstrates intrinsically intertwined crafts husbandry activities, landscapes, decision-making strategies, subsistence patterns, all site-specific environment. frames debate such inclusions’ strictly significance, their role as cultural factor embodied social behaviour, or completely accidental presence whole spectrum between.