Roman pottery workshops, known as figlinae, were specialized centers for producing a wide range of clay objects essential to daily life in Roman society. These workshops employed potters who crafted items such as vases, amphorae, tiles, bricks, and household utensils like plates and cups. Large-scale production was common, especially for amphorae, which were used to transport goods like olive oil, wine, and grains across the Roman Empire. Workshops were often located near clay deposits and transportation routes, such as rivers or roads, to facilitate distribution.

The production process was meticulous, involving the extraction and preparation of clay, followed by shaping, decorating, and firing the pieces in specialized kilns. Some workshops gained renown for the quality and style of their products, such as terra sigillata, a type of pottery known for its reddish finish and detailed ornamentation. In addition to meeting local demands, many workshops exported their products to other regions of the empire, highlighting the economic and cultural significance of pottery in Roman life.