SEM-EDS identification of glass groups in Meroitic period and Early Nobadian Nubia

ABSTRACT This article presents the results of chemical analysis using SEM-EDS on 136 vitreous bead and vessel samples found at Faras and Qasr Ibrim (Lower Nubia), and Gabati and Meroe (Upper Nubia) in Sudan dating to the Meroitic (c. 350 BC–AD 350) and Early Nobadian (c. AD 350–600) periods. The results revealed a great variety of chemical groups and types, indicating the presence of glass from multiple origins. Many of these glass samples match the known Mediterranean glass groups to suggest a potential provenance for some of the glasses. However, a number of samples from Gabati did not fit within these groups and the presence of glassy faience at Qasr Ibrim may highlight further nuances of vitreous material production and the potential for more locally based practices.