This paper presents the results of a program of mineralogical analysis aimed at the elucidation of raw material acquisition and paste preparation practices among Roman-period potters in the Orte/Vasanello area of the central Tiber Valley of Italy. A study of modern folk potters at Vasanello revealed a complex pattern of clay utilization. A selection of local clays, pottery produced by Vasanello potters, and ceramics from two Roman ceramic production sites was subjected to mineralogical analysis (x-ray diffraction, petrographic) for purposes of comparison. The results indicate that similar clay sources were exploited by potters in both periods, and that the materials obtained from these were likely employed for similar functional varieties of pottery.