Tinkering
Abstract
Through three cases of short-lived terra sigillata ceramic production in Italy and Gaul, this chapter shows that experimentation was driven by those living precariously, in an attempt to make more from less, but was curbed by a lack of capital investment. This disjuncture between capital and human capital development helps explain both the presence of a wider skill spectrum than previously assumed for the Roman world and the structural limitations of Roman innovation, while putting into relief the plight of those without access to a capital asset portfolio.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Historical and Literary Studies
Classical Antiquity Studies
Ancient Mediterranean Archaeology and History
Publication details
- Journal / source
- Cambridge University Press eBooks
- Pages
- 71–114
- Publication date
- 6 March 2026
- Language
- EN
- Document type
- Book chapter