Ethno-archaeometry in eastern Senegal: The connections between raw materials and finished ceramic products

For an ethnoarchaeological study of the ceramic traditions in the Falémé Valley (eastern Senegal),we have developed an ethnoarchaeometric approach to describe the variability in the clayeymaterials used by the potters and to stimulate discussion of the connections between raw materials and finished products. The aim is to test archaeometricmodels based on the identification and interpretation of compositional groups and ultimately, resolve archaeological questions regarding the pottery from excavations in the region. Using a data set of 47 specimens of rawmaterials, temper and finished products resulting fromdocumented production sequences, our study demonstrates the range of clayeymaterials used by potters in the FaléméValley and their possible identification in finished products. In addition, by systematically comparing the technical behavior with the compositional groups for the stages of the production sequence that vary (raw material procurement, clay preparation and firing), this study also shows the limits for interpretation of compositional groups in term of social-cultural aspects