Wednesday, October 22, 2003

Astronomical Surface Decoration on Ceramics, our story so far- OK, going back to a bit of long term research- We've taken a look at the use, or its lack, of star charts on ceramics for the countries in the Ancient East.  (OK, with help, I found one.) Next up on our list is Ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia. I've been quite surprised not to have found many examples so far, but have learned a few things. Knowledge of celestial positions may have been considered a state secret, so they would not have been casually used as decoration. Instead of star charts, cultures may have used mythological constellations as elements in decoration.  (E.G.  Draco on vases.) The use of celestial elements on popular ceramics may have been more to show the importance, or divinity of a subject, than accurately represent stars/planets.  (Teleological and not cosmological.) We'll start with Egypt- 2:13:46 PM