Though often found in large quantities, typically as structural foundations, examples of brick and tile are important to the archaeological record.
Identification of their fabric can tell where and even when the piece was made. Clay pipes are another, hugely significant dating tool. Their mass production during the 1700 and1800’s can give a specific date to a context. The rapid change of styles and short life of a clay pipe means that a clear chronology of consumer tastes, manufacturing processes and trade routes can all be attached to groups of seemingly insignificant fragments.