Investigating Ceramics from the Neolithic Occupation of Kom W, Fayum, Egypt

Abstract

The occupation of Kom W (Fayum, Egypt) is not well understood. Previous investigations have suggested the occupation may be representative of a range of sites, from a temporary encampment to a village. This study uses ceramics from museum collections to investigate the occupation of Kom W. The method proposed makes use of an entire ceramic assemblage, regardless of its position or state of preservation. This method is used to estimate the number of vessels represented by sherds, by using geometric data from complete vessels from the same assemblage. The results of this study suggest some vessels were used for storage on Kom W, which has implications for the nature of occupation during the Neolithic.