An Encyclopaedia of Indian Archaeology v1.c16.s3.1

v1.c16.s3.1

The Harappa Ware [4.9] has generally a red surface and is wheel-made, although handmade specimens are also available. The clay is well-levigated. The regular striation marks suggest the use of fast spinning wheel. It has sand or lime or both as *dégraissant*, the former often having a substantial quantity of mica. The ware is sturdy and well-fired. Most of the pots, which are utilitarian in character, have flat bases, whereas certain types are peculiar in having pointed bases which require jar-stands. The technique of manufacturing is not very clear, although it is likely that in some cases the neck of the pot was made separately, the joints obliterated inside and outside in final trimming. The slip varies from a thin to thick coating, coloured either red or cream. It is generally the upper part of the pots that is covered with slip, the lower portion being left rough and sometimes decorated with cord impression. A few sherds have graffiti [20.1] such as also occur on the seals.