Ceramic transactions in a multi-ethnic area (Upper East Ghana)

• The study focuses in a multi-ethnic area with two ethnic groups producing vessels.
• Two ceramic distribution and production patterns occur simultaneously in the area.
• There are three patterns of ceramic purchase: self-made, from potters, from markets.
• Mobility infrastructures and seller skills influence the transaction patterns.
• Social links and pottery perception affect ceramic dispersion and consumption.

Pottery distribution studies have usually focused on the economical value of the products, means of transport, labour organisation, and the technological and typological characteristics of the pottery. This paper attempts, from an ethnoarchaeological perspective, to emphasise other variables, including the social relationships and ideological aspects in the creation of complex pottery exchange networks. These phenomena are essential to achieving a deeper understanding of how communities produce, distribute and use ceramics. The case study we present is centred in the multi-ethnic Bunkpurugu-Yunyoo and Garu-Tempane districts in northeast Ghana. In this region, the aspects that affect the ceramic distribution and consumption patterns are multiple: mobility infrastructures, such as roads and transport means; production scales and pot quality; labour organisation; and territoriality or settlement systems. Nevertheless, social and familial relationships as well as different social perceptions established among the various ethnic groups are active agents that determine the distribution areas, networks and trade systems as well as the consumers' pottery choices.