Caroline CLAUDE AN OVERVIEW OF MEDIEVAL "RED FABRIC" POTTERY PRODUCTION IN DOURDAN (ESSONNE)

Abstract

The mediaeval "red-fabric" ware is frequently encountered between the 12th and the 14th centuries, in an area covering the south of the Parisian basin and the north of the Centre region. The ware is easily recognisable by a uniformly-red colour, a rough surface and the smallness and regularity of siliceous inclusions. The town of Dourdan, located in the Essonne department, mid-way between Paris and Orleans, was a production centre for this ware. Production there appears to have begun during the 12th century and to have ceased towards the end of the 14th century. Pottery-types being produced belong to the domestic crockery range. Large-capacity hand-made containers (storage jars, vats) and terracotta roof furniture were also produced.

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