Imported tableware and socio-cultural change in the urban community: The case of early modern Vilnius

Archaeological evidence from Vilnius old town reveals significant socio-cultural shifts in early modern dining practices, marked by a substantial increase in imported tableware. Unlike the medieval period, where such items were rare and exclusive to the elite, 16th- and 17th-century imports—including Dutch, Italian, German, and Ottoman pottery—became widespread across social classes, particularly among nobles, monks, and nuns. This shift suggests that imported tableware was not merely a marker of status but integrated into daily rituals, reflecting broader European influences on Vilnius society. The study analyzes archaeological material to trace the adoption and distribution of these wares, providing insights into how urban lifestyles and dining traditions evolved during this period.

Urbonaitė-Ubė, M. (2022). Imported tableware and socio-cultural change in the urban community: The case of early modern Vilnius. Archaeologia Baltica, 29, 37–51. https://doi.org/10.15181/ab.v29i0.2469