Pottery of Indus Valley Civilisation: Characteristics & Uses

Introduction

Indus Valley Civilisation pottery showcases advanced techniques and diverse forms, offering insights into ancient trade, culture, and society in the Indian subcontinent.

Characteristics of Pottery of Indus Valley Civilisation

• Making: The Indus Valley pottery consists chiefly of very fine wheel-made wares, very few being hand-made.
• Red Clay: Plain pottery of Indus Valley Civilisation is generally of red clay, with or without a fine red or gray slip. 
• The black-painted ware has a fine coating of red slip on which geometric and animal designs are executed in glossy black paint. 
• Polychrome Pottery: Rare and mainly consisted of small vases decorated with geometric patterns in red, black, green, rarely white and yellow.
• Incised Ware:  Rare with incised decoration confined to the bases of pots.

Uses of Pottery of Indus Valley Civilisation

• Perforated pottery with large holes at the bottom and small holes all over the wall was probably used for straining the liquor.
• Miniature vessels, generally less than half an inch in size, were used for decorative purposes.
• Pottery for household purposes was found in all shapes and sizes. Graceful curves were used, while straight and angular shapes were an exception.

Conclusion

• The pottery of the Indus Valley Civilisation remains an invaluable archaeological treasure, illuminating the sophistication and cultural vibrancy of one of the world’s earliest urban societies. 
  

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