Internet Archaeol. 17. Willis. The representation of samian forms and the use of EVE data: the future

8.2.7 The representation of samian forms and the use of EVE data: the future

Using EVE (Estimated Vessel Equivalents) data as a measure of presence and quantity of pottery is preferable to employing 'numbers of vessels represented' information (cf. discussion Section 5.2.2; cf. Tyers 1993). As yet too little of this kind of data is in the public domain, specifically, that is, information on the EVE totals per samian type, despite the use of EVE measurement as a standard method for c. 20 years. Tyers has previously pointed up the utility of this class of information on samian ware (1993).

Some tables are presented here for reference and to illustrate that EVE data can be used in this manner. Table 50 shows the composition of the samian from the Field Study Centre site, Birdoswald fort, by (Rim Equivalent) EVE. Table 51 shows similar information in the case of the South Gaulish samian from Metchley fort(s), Birmingham. The composition of the samian by EVE from the villa site at Hayton, Burnby Lane, East Yorkshire, is displayed in Table 52. The composition of the latter might be compared, out of curiosity, with that from the Field Study Centre at Birdoswald since they are broadly contemporary assemblages. Similar potential for tabulation and scope for comparison exists with archival data for other sites recorded using EVE, as, for instance, with the samian from Leadenhall Court, London (Groves 1993).

8.2.8 Summary

Charts 13-17, drawing on a large sample, demonstrate and confirm that there were contrasting variations in patterns of samian consumption between different types of site (cf. Section 7). These consistent patterns were doubtless mainly due to economic and cultural differences between the consumers at these different types of site.