Pottery Studies in the North-West 1975-2000 and Beyond

This paper briefly outlines the state of knowledge regarding the production and distribution of medieval pottery in the north-west. In contrast to the large area covered by the region known production sites are sparse and knowledge of pottery use in the region is patchy. Carlisle and Chester have produced good well-stratified assemblages yet small, poorly stratified and abraded assemblages typify large parts of the region. In some areas little progress has been made since 1975 although some areas have produced their first groups of medieval pottery. This situation reflects, as well as contributes to, wider problems regarding the interpretation and dating of the region’s medieval archaeology. The paper surveys current archaeological activity in the region and ascertains what potential there may be to answer the remaining questions about pottery production and distribution. The activities of the North West Region MPRG and its hopes.