The volume of ceramic vessels - criterion for their purpose (based on the materials of the burial ground Troitsk-7)

The article analyzes the ceramic complex of the Troitsk-7 burial ground to identify groups of vessels with different functional purposes. Their volume is taken as the main criterion for dividing vessels into groups. To calculate the volume, the vessel was divided into a number of simpler geometric shapes - truncated cones. For them, the volume was determined. When analyzing the volume, it becomes apparent that there is no clear standardization in size. The consequence is the fuzziness of the groups. A visual analysis of the surfaces was carried out using a binocular microscope to identify traces of use on the vessels. As a result, three groups of vessels were distinguished, different in volume and character of traces. It can be said about the lack of connection between the form and function of vessels in the Petrovka and Alakul cultures. The main criterion for identifying groups with different functionality in the Bronze Age will be their volume. Vessels of Troitsk-7 were used in everyday life, and then were placed in burials. In addition to Fedorovka culture vessels, which were ritual. The possibilities of the method were tested, which allows calculating the volume for fragmented vessels, which allows analyzing vessels from settlements.