Abstract

• Earthenware was used in the Neolithic Period though its development occurred at different time. An increased range of craft activities took place in the settlements of this period, notably the manufacture of the first local pottery vessels around 5500 or 5000 BCE. In Myanmar, earthenware has been used since Neolithic period. Pottery has been commonly used for different domestic and religious and ritual purposes. The pottery industry flourishes particularly in the Townships of Ayeyarwady region. The production process of earthenware is very interesting. The potters make this earthenware by using traditional methods. They produce them by hand through five production stages. These production stages are collecting raw materials, preparing paste, shaping pot, applying before baking and baking. Because of the plastic bottles and cans, the earthenware production business of Ayeyarwady Region becomes to decline gradually.