PhD candidate Jing Saichia Cheng publishes paper on the diversity and complexity of early kiln technology in China

PhD candidate Jing Saichia Cheng published a paper in the Journal of Archaeological Science: Reports investigating the complexity and diversity of pottery production in early China. The paper assesses variation in kiln structures and capacities across different regions in Southern China from the Neolithic to the Bronze Age, by comparing 273 kiln structures from 68 archaeological sites. At earlier sites (Middle Neolithic), multiple firing techniques were in use, sometimes coexisting at the same sites, highlighting the complexity and diversity of production strategies. During the Late Neolithic period, production underwent a shift, so that multiple potters were working together. This is followed by the development of a new firing technology, known as the Dragon Kiln, that required collaboration and coordination between multiple potters. 

This paper is part of the special issue: “Exploring craft spaces: A new insight into the archaeology of pottery production”