As part of the Virtual Seminar Series in Archaeological Science, Dr Carmen Ting (University of Leicester) will give a talk entitled:
The glaze is less opaque on the other side: Rethinking the role of the southern Levantine coast in the spread of glaze production across Islamic lands
Abstract
Glazed tableware is one of the hallmarks of the material culture across Islamic lands. These vessels are not only known for their decoration and designs, but their sheer presence in the archaeological record also marks a major episode of material revolution, as the production and consumption of glazed tableware did not start in many regions until they were under the Muslim control.
In this talk, I will explore the origins and development of the technologies used to produce the glazed tableware recovered from the southern Levantine coast during the early Islamic to the beginning of the Crusader period (9th to 13th centuries CE).
I will focus specifically on the glazed tableware types that do not feature the use of an opaque white tin glaze, evidence as such is underrepresented in the extant research framework. Drawing from a combination of archaeological, technological and isotopic evidence, our results showed that the beginning of glazed tableware production did not happen in vacuum, but it was rooted in the pre-existing local ceramic traditions and craft structures, supported by an interaction with other crafts. Participation in regional and supra-regional exchange networks facilitated the movement of raw materials, knowledge and ideas, providing further impetus for technological and social innovations.
The event will be held via Zoom. Please register to receive the meeting details.
Who should attend
All are welcome.