Following the traces of the amphora

Abstract

This paper tries to reconstruct the manufacturing process of the Hellenistic Amphora in the Antikenmuseum of Berlin by analysing its manufacturing traces. For instance, striking are the deviations from the rotational symmetry of the wall thickness, or a slanting cavity in the foot which was assumedly cut. The typical internal and external traces of the amphora can not be grinding marks. These traces could unequivocally be explained to be scratches which are generated during the final stage of a rotary pressing process. Rotary pressing is an understandable explanation for the making of the amphora, and for generating the special features of this vessel. The decorative sleeve around the neck of the amphora probably was wound with a hot glass trail. Subsequently, grooves were impressed. The ring could be compared with Celtic bracelets which perhaps were made the same way. For an English translation of the complete article see www.rosemarie-lierke.de (Dez. 2009).