Younger Grey Ware

Definition, Function and Potential

Abstract

Younger Grey Ware has been called many things in all the archaeological literature, and in some cases it has been given quite different dates of origin. Though no one has paid much attention to this grey earthenware, it is one of the more common types found in medieval cities, throughout northern Europe and Scandinavia. For this reason, definitions and the described function of younger Grey Ware can differ. This article is an attempt to acknowledge that and to put younger Grey Ware in focus. This article also attempts to show that it holds a potential as case-study material, and that pottery experts and historical archaeologists need to consider the different definitions of younger Grey Ware in order for readers to grasp the essence of younger Grey Ware, i.e. what it is and when it is from. For instance, did it exist before the beginning of the 13th century? The lack of consensus can become a problem if younger Grey Ware is the key artefact of an excavation or other research project. My thesis is that younger Grey Ware can give us details about the medieval household from where it is found to the interregional contacts during the high Middle Ages.