Judit Molera,will explain why ceramics are one of the richest and most revealing material witnesses of our past. Drawing on her experience in the study of ceramic materials, Judit highlights that beyond their practical function, each piece holds information about the societies that created it. One of the key elements for interpreting this information lies in the glazes: vitrified layers applied to the surface for both functional and decorative purposes.

A detailed study of glazes helps us understand the technological knowledge of each period, the materials that were used, and the innovations introduced by artisans. It also sheds light on cultural exchanges between regions, the circulation of ideas and techniques, and the ways ceramic production was organized. Each glaze is, in fact, a microscopic trace that tells stories about processes, contacts, and ways of life that we may no longer be able to observe directly, but which are still preserved in these objects.

To explore this fascinating topic further, the Gironella Library will host the talk “Our past through ceramics: what do glazes tell us?”, which will take place on Friday, February 6th at 6:30 pm.

Her approach brings together science, history, and archaeology to clearly and accessibly show how we can reconstruct aspects of our past from what we often see as nothing more than broken fragments. This talk is perfect for anyone interested in ceramics and cultural heritage, as well as for those curious to discover how everyday objects can become a valuable source of historical knowledge.