Assessing petrographic variability and regional connections in Medieval and Modern Catalonian Greyware Pottery: Insights from geochemical analysis

Greyware pottery, commonly found in most archaeological contexts in medieval Catalonia (northwestern Spain), reflects a long-standing tradition of ceramic production that has continually adapted to social and economic transformations. Originating in the late Roman period, this tradition has persisted into the present day, surviving in the form of artisanal and traditional wares. This study explores regional connections in medieval and modern greyware pottery production and distribution areas in Catalonia through petrographic examination and geochemical analysis. A dataset of 74 samples was selected for wavelength dispersive X-ray fluorescence (WD-XRF) analysis from an extensive assemblage previously examined via thin-section petrography. The primary objectives were to determine the geochemical composition of the samples, test de validity of the petrographic groups, and ultimately to examine how these two sources of information (petrography and chemistry) converge to reinforce the group definitions or diverge to reveal new dimensions of variability. At the same time, regional connections were explored, particularly regarding fabrics found in the area of Les Gavarres. Significant correlations between geochemical compositions and petrographic classifications further reinforces the validity of the previously defined petrographic groups. The findings reveal regional patterns, suggesting connections between the eastern region and other consumption centres in coastal and central Catalonia, providing new insights for studying technological practices and cultural transfer, and enhancing our understanding of utilitarian greyware pottery production and distribution dynamics over the centuries.