Guess That Artifact! Oct 16 Answer
If you guessed pottery, you are correct!
This fragmented vessel is a type of pottery archaeologists call “Cape Fear” which dates from the Middle Woodland period (300 BCE to 800 CE). Archaeologists use various factors such as temper, finish, and the location the pottery was found to identify the type. These fragments were found at an archaeological site along the Coastal Plain and have sand mixed into the clay (temper). The maker shaped the vessel with a paddle covered in fabric, giving it extra texture. Looking at the indents on the vessel’s surface, can you imagine the fabric woven from thick fibers? With its tall, cylindrical profile, this vessel was likely used for cooking!
