Combined studies on glazed ceramic bodies from the Middle and Neo-Elamite periods (1500–539 BCE)

Abstract

The Elamites have assigned specialized names for different types of ceramics, signaling a specialized approach to ceramic production during the Middle and Neo-Elamite periods. They were pioneers in the use of glazed ceramics on the Iranian Plateau. This investigation focuses on the examination of 29 samples of glazed ceramic bodies originating from the Middle-Elamite (~ 1500–1100 BCE) and Neo-Elamite periods (~ 1100–539 BCE). The objective of this analysis, centered on the earliest instances of glazed ceramic bodies in Iran, is to obtain a comparative examination of the ceramic bodies. Such an approach can be useful for understanding the diverse production techniques used by Elamites in the Middle-Elamite and Neo-Elamite periods. To achieve this purpose, X-ray diffraction and petrography was used to determine the mineralogical characteristics of the ceramic bodies. Further insight into the chemical analysis of the samples was obtained through Electron Probe Micro-Analysis. The experimental data allowed the classification of the samples into four distinct groups. Particularly noteworthy in this categorization is the diversity observed in the Neo-Elamite samples. This diversity of Neo-Elamite ceramic bodies can be attributed to two primary factors. Firstly, the Neo-Elamite period witnessed a more varied array of techniques for producing glazed ceramic bodies compared to the Middle-Elamite period. Unlike the Middle-Elamite glazed ceramics, which were solely utilized for architectural decoration (glazed bricks) and were locally produced, the Neo-Elamite period marked the first instance of glazed ceramic vessels being used in the southwest of Iranian plateau, leading to a higher technological diversity. Secondly, the frequency of trade and importation of glazed ceramics from other regions to the southwest of Iran was notably higher during the Neo-Elamite period compared to the Middle-Elamite one. A notable distinction emerges in the Middle-Elam period, where exclusively quartz-based ceramic bodies were referenced, setting it apart from other sample types.