Shared traditions and shard conservatism: pottery making at the Chalcolithic site of Radovanu (Romania)

Abstract This work investigates the technology of pottery production at Chalcolithic site Radovanu-La Muscalu (first half fifth millennium BCE), in southern Romania. The excavation this settlement yielded a rich and well-contextualised archaeological assemblage that represents last phases development Boian material culture, phenomenon spread throughout lower Danube area end sixth BCE first BCE. To carry out investigation, total forty-nine ceramic samples, representative different types chronological horizons attested site, together with geological samples collected around Radovanu, were selected. These analysed using multi-pronged scientific approach including petrography, X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy. interdisciplinary study elucidates aspects local indicates ceramics Radovanu manufactured according to conservative tradition consistently made use grog tempering all which was inhabited. results also show regional technological traits coexisted elements widely applied Balkan region time, such as graphite-painted decoration. investigation identification potential non-local productions well illustrates complex interrelationships between neighbouring cultures Balkans.