Examples of Fermentation Vessels and Drinking Vessels from Around the World

Different kinds of containers are used to process, store, and consume fermented beverages. These containers have been observed in ethnographic situations and their use inferred for archaeological societies based on container form and the analysis of residues inside containers. Many different kinds of plants can be used to produce fermented beverages including grains, fruits, and succulent plant parts. The sugars in the processed plant material is converted to alcohol (and carbon dioxide) through the fermentation process, which involves the addition of active microbes, such as yeasts. This fermentation often takes place in very large containers. Then, the processed material may be transferred to drinking vessels used in consumption. It has even been argued that the very use of ceramics in some societies was first for drinking vessels used in the context of competitive feasts (Blake and Clark 19XX). However, communal consumption may also take place through the use of dippers or straws from the fermentation vessel itself. The earliest vessels documented by archaeologists to have been used for fermentation were made of ceramics and ceramic vessels are still widely used for this purpose in Africa and Mexico.

     Images:

Figure 2.1.1 “Colima Vessel” This figurine shows both a fermentation vessel and a drinking vessel.

Figure 2.1.2 “Keo Cup - Peru” These beakers were used by high status individuals to drink chicha in Peru.

          · 16th Century Venetian glass goblets in the collection of the Corning Museum of Glass:
           http://www.cmog.org/collections/choice/61_3_135+.htm Glass goblets were made to imbibe
           wine or beer at feasts.

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