The Early Chalcolithic and Late Chalcolithic at Sultana–Ghețărie site (southern Romania). A look from the pots

This study examines two prehistoric pottery assemblages from the Sultana–Ghețărie site (southern Romania), excavated in 2021 from distinct contexts: an Early Chalcolithic pit (Boian–Vidra tradition, ca. 4950–4650 cal BC) and a Late Chalcolithic pit (Cernavodă III tradition, ca. 3650–3350 cal BC). Through macroscopic analysis and geochemical characterization (pXRF), the research investigates depositional, technological, and functional patterns, focusing on fragmentation, tempers, clay sources, forming methods, surface treatments, decoration, and firing techniques. The results reveal technological features shared by both assemblages that can be understood as common prehistoric practices and/or adaptations to local resources (e.g., the frequent use of grog temper in fine clays lacking sandy inclusions), alongside distinct vessel shapes, finishing practices, and decorative repertoires reflecting different cultural traditions. Functional patterns also diverge: the Early Chalcolithic repertoire was oriented toward vessels used for liquids, individual consumption, and food processing, while the Late Chalcolithic assemblage emphasized shared use, storage, and processing of solid materials. These findings highlight long-term adaptations to local resources, while also underscoring the technological and social transformations that accompanied shifting cultural horizons in the Lower Danube over a span of 1,500 years.