Copper Age Communities in the Carpathian Basin
From The Observatory
Date
December 3, 2025
Location
Otto Wagner Postsparkasse, Vienna
Area
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This study investigates this issue with a large-scale technological analysis of 26 pottery assemblages from different regions of the Carpathian Basin. This includes the macroscopic observation of the vessels to identify the forming and surface treatment techniques of vessels with the aid of ethnographic and experimental reference works. Thus, the technological knowledge of pottery-making is characterised in each site.
The comparison of the sites outlines the Early and Middle Copper Age technical traditions in the Carpathian Basin and spatiotemporal similarities and differences in pottery-making. This sheds light on social relationship networks, based on strong personal relationships between the potters. Furthermore, the study also highlights the varied ways in which Copper Age communities responded to technological innovations, reflecting the diverse nature of these communities.Participants
Austrian Academy of Sciences, OeAW-OeAI
Organizer, Host | Homepage
Since 1.1.2021, the Austrian Archaeological Institute (OeAI) focuses on the foundational research in the field of archaeology and classical studies at the Austrian Academy of Sciences (OeAW). The core mission is the investigation of human history from the Quaternary period up to the modern era, taking into consideration all material archaeological sources and written traditions. The institute consists of the three departments Prehistory and Western Asia/North African Archaeology, Historical Archaeology and Classical Studies, which cover the entire professional curriculum and the variety of methods of the disciplines represented. Interdisciplinarity and professional interconnections distinguish the Institute, which is expressed in the creation of central facilities for Archaeological Sciences, Digital Archaeology and Classics and Heritage Science. The extensive research infrastructure of the Institute consists of laboratories, workshops, a technical pool and mobile equipment, as well as archives, collections and the largest archaeological professional library in Austria.
