This study aims to systematically investigate the influx and transition process of pottery culture in the eastern Jeonnam region by conducting attribute analysis and formal classification of Unified Silla pottery excavated from the area. Furthermore, ...
This study aims to systematically investigate the influx and transition process of pottery culture in the eastern Jeonnam region by conducting attribute analysis and formal classification of Unified Silla pottery excavated from the area. Furthermore, by linking the changes in pottery styles with the political and social shifts of the time, this research seeks to shed new light on the historical character of the eastern Jeonnam region, where studies on the Unified Silla period have been relatively scarce. The research results indicate that the Unified Silla culture in the eastern Jeonnam region underwent a three-stage evolutionary process from the late 7th century to the early 10th century. Stage 1 (7C 4/4-8C 2/4) represents the period of influx and coexistence of Unified Silla culture. Following the fall of Baekje, Silla cultural elements, such as pedestaled bowls with upright rims and globular bottles in the Gyeongju royal capital style, began to be introduced. However, sites like Yonggang-ri in Gwangyang show a coexistence of Silla-style pottery and Baekje-style bottle-shaped pottery, suggesting that Unified Silla culture gradually merged and coexisted with the existing local traditions. Stage 2 (8C 3/4-9C 1/4) is the period of expansion and standardization. This stage is characterized by the rapid spread and formalization of Silla pottery styles across the region, influenced by the reorganization of local administrative systems (9 Provinces and 5 Small Capitals) in 757 AD. A notable feature of this period is the emergence of corrugated bottles. This expansion is closely linked to the production and distribution systems; it is interpreted that the Wolseong site in Wolha-dong, Yeosu, served as a major production and distribution hub, utilizing its strategic location for maritime transportation. Stage 3 (9C 2/4-10C 1/4) is the period of localization and practical adaptation. With the weakening of central authority and the rise of local gentry (Hojok), stamped patterns (Inhwamun) disappeared, and vessel forms became simplified and more practical. Notably, due to the influence of Seon Buddhism and the decline of elaborate burial customs, the primary consumption sites of pottery shifted from tombs to local administrative strongholds, such as mountain fortresses and temple sites. In conclusion, the Unified Silla pottery in the eastern Jeonnam region evolved in tandem with major historical events. This study is significant in that it establishes a regional chronology and demonstrates the process of social transition through material culture.