Session: #802

Theme & Session Format

Theme:
1. The Material Record: Current Trends and Future Directions
Session format:
Regular session

Title & Content

Title:
From Prehistory to Post-medieval Times: Persistence and Change in Artisanal Production across the Mediterranean
Content:
The Mediterranean region has played a pivotal role in the development of human civilization, witnessing the rise and fall of numerous ancient cultures and empires. Throughout history, artisanal production has been a significant driver of economic and cultural growth in this region, persisting with remarkable resilience despite the ever-evolving socio-political context. This session aims to explore the persistence and changes in artisanal production from Prehistory to Post-Medieval times, shedding light on the continuity and adaptation of traditional crafts and techniques.
By bringing together scholars and researchers specializing in archaeology, art history, anthropology, and material culture studies, we seek to foster interdisciplinary discussions. The goal is to generate a multi-proxy and diachronic understanding of the evolution of artisanal practices across the Mediterranean. In doing so, the role of artisans as cultural mediators, and agents of innovation will be highlighted.
We encourage papers and case studies that deal with any kind of craft (pottery, metal, glass, bone, jewellery, etc.) and its production processes from Prehistory to Post-Medieval times. Communications on methodological and theoretical approaches to the Archaeology of Production are also welcomed.
This holistic examination of artisanal production, ultimately, aims to contribute to a broader understanding of the enduring cultural heritage of the Mediterranean region. By recognizing the inherent value of traditional craftsmanship and its dynamic relationships with societal, political, and economic forces, we can better appreciate the significance of artisanal production. Not only as a vital component in shaping our collective past, but also as an informing tool to envision our future.
Keywords:
Chaîne opératoire, Archaeology of Production, Artisanal practices, Material culture, Mediterranean
Session associated with MERC:
no
Session associated with CIfA:
no
Session associated with SAfA:
no
Session associated with CAA:
no
Session associated with DGUF:
no
Session associated with other:

Organisers

Main organiser:
Silvia Berrica (Spain) 1
Co-organisers:
Leyre Morgado-Roncal (Spain) 2
Francesco Carrera (Italy) 3
Affiliations:
1. University of Alcalá
2. University of Granada
3. Soprintendenze archeologia, belle arti e paesaggio