Jōmon pottery

Jōmon pottery (縄文土器, Jōmon doki) is a type of ancient Japanese pottery that dates back to the Jōmon period, which spans from approximately 14,000 BCE to 300 BCE. This pottery is characterized by its distinctive cord-marked patterns, which are created by pressing cords into the surface of the clay before it is fired.

History

The Jōmon period is one of the earliest eras of prehistoric Japan, and it is named after the "cord-marked" (縄文, jōmon) patterns found on the pottery from this time. The Jōmon people were primarily hunter-gatherers, and their pottery is among the oldest in the world, with some of the earliest examples dating back to around 14,000 BCE.

Characteristics

Jōmon pottery is known for its variety and complexity. The pottery was made by hand, without the use of a potter's wheel, and it often features elaborate designs. The cord-marking technique involved pressing twisted cords into the wet clay to create patterns. Over time, the designs became more intricate, with some pieces featuring elaborate sculptural elements.

Types of Jōmon Pottery

Jōmon pottery can be classified into several types based on the period and region:

• Incipient Jōmon (c. 14,000–7500 BCE): The earliest pottery, simple in form and decoration.
• Initial Jōmon (c. 7500–4000 BCE): More variety in shapes and patterns.
• Early Jōmon (c. 4000–2500 BCE): Introduction of more complex designs and larger vessels.
• Middle Jōmon (c. 2500–1500 BCE): Peak of artistic expression, with elaborate and ornate designs.
• Late Jōmon (c. 1500–1000 BCE): Decline in complexity, more utilitarian forms.
• Final Jōmon (c. 1000–300 BCE): Simplification of forms and designs.

Cultural Significance

Jōmon pottery is not only significant for its age but also for what it reveals about the Jōmon people. The pottery suggests a society with a rich cultural life, capable of creating art and expressing complex ideas through their designs. The pottery was used for various purposes, including cooking, storage, and ceremonial functions.

Archaeological Discoveries

Numerous archaeological sites across Japan have yielded Jōmon pottery, providing valuable insights into the lives of the Jōmon people. Some of the most famous sites include the Sannai-Maruyama Site and the Jōmon Archaeological Sites in Hokkaidō, Northern Tōhoku, and other regions.

Also see

• Jōmon period
• Japanese pottery and porcelain
• Yayoi pottery
• Sannai-Maruyama Site