FACEM is an online database for ancient pottery. It supports the study and comparison of ceramic finds, with the aim of identifying their provenance, distribution, and production technology, which are essential for reconstructing broader socio-economic phenomena and ancient trade networks across the Mediterranean.
FACEM’s research methodology combines macroscopic and microscopic examinations of freshly broken ceramic samples with archaeometric analyses. Since the first release in 2011, it has become a well-established research tool, supporting interdisciplinary scholarship by sharing high-resolution macro-images and detailed fabric descriptions. The database currently includes fine wares (mainly black-glazed ware and terra sigillata), transport amphorae, coarse wares, ceramic building materials, and terracotta objects from numerous production sites and regions in modern-day Spain, Italy, Malta, Tunisia, Albania, Greece, and Türkiye. These objects can be filtered using the search function or by navigating the interactive map.
As part of a major update and remaking (2024-2026), of both the technical backend and database structure, the repository has been expanded to an even broader range of pottery wares produced across the Mediterranean, roughly dating from the seventh century BCE to the seventh century CE. Fabric data for these groups will be added in upcoming releases.
For more information about new and previous releases, the history of the database, the methodology of fabric description, and to download papers, please visit the dedicated sections:
The (Re)Making
About FACEM
Papers
What's new?