ABSTRACT

Crystallized salt can be extracted by boiling brine in pottery over fire. This technique was implemented in many ancient civilizations throughout the world and is used even today. We identified the raw materials and technological aspects of potteries used in salt workshops from the Early Classic period (AD 250–550) of Nueva Esperanza (Pacific coast of El Salvador) by subjecting 19 samples to a petrographic analysis and wavelength-dispersive X-ray fluorescence. Previous research suggests salt pots were local, but decorated pots were transported from inland communities through markets. However, all 19 samples were made from similar main raw materials, indicating that a variety of techniques and processes were used to manufacture different types of potteries in the associated salt workshops. In sum, this study’s approach should enhance understanding of ancient salt workshops, particularly regarding related pottery production systems and the nature of trade.

摘要

结晶盐可以通过用火在陶器中煮沸盐水来提取。这种技术在世界各地的许多古代文明中都得到了应用，甚至在今天仍在使用。我们通过对 19 个样品进行岩相分析和波长色散 X 射线分析，确定了 Nueva Esperanza（萨尔瓦多太平洋沿岸）早期古典时期（公元 250-550 年）盐作坊所用陶器的原材料和技术方面荧光。以前的研究表明盐罐是当地的，但装饰罐是通过市场从内陆社区运输的。然而，所有19个样品的主要原材料都相似，表明相关盐作坊使用了多种技术和工艺来制造不同类型的陶器。总共，