An Encyclopaedia of Indian Archaeology v1.c21.s12.7

v1.c21.s12.7

Some important ancient Indian wares like the PGW [11.14], Black-slipped Ware [11.13] and NBPW [11.16] were baked in a reducing atmosphere. Even now a group of potters produces a shining black pottery similar in appearance to the NBPW. They use the following simple technique: they stack their sun-dried ware inside a large-mouthed, thick-walled, well-baked jar; the space inside the vessels and between them is filled with goat droppings; and then the jar is sealed with several layers of clay and cloth to make it completely air-tight. The pottery in the jar is then baked in *gajaput* fire. [See also 11.16.]