Sphero-conical Vessels from Baalbek

Recent excavations at Baalbek's Bustan Nassif site have uncovered a significant assemblage of sphero-conical vessels, dating from the 12th to early 15th centuries. These vessels, found in both stratified and secondary contexts, exhibit remarkable variety in fabric, form, and surface treatment, including some glazed items. A notable sub-group features post-firing incised inscriptions or symbols, offering new insights into their potential functions. The study, conducted by the DAI-Berlin, BTU-Cottbus, and DGA-Lebanon, also sheds light on a military destruction event in the north-eastern area of Baalbek, while documenting the urban layout and ceramic production history during the Middle Islamic period.

Vezzoli, V. (2017). Sphero-conical Vessels from Baalbek. Journal of Islamic Archaeology, 3(2), 209–231. https://doi.org/10.1558/jia.v3i2.32828