The Main ‘Middle Byzantine Production’ and Pottery Manufacture in Thebes and Chalis

A groundbreaking study identifies Chalcis, the ancient port of Thebes, as the likely origin of the 'Middle Byzantine Production' (MBP), a widespread and influential ceramic tradition spanning the 12th to 14th centuries AD. Through archaeometric and archaeological analysis, including kiln furniture and pottery wasters from rescue excavations in Thebes and Chalcis, researchers established chemical reference groups that supported this hypothesis. The MBP's persistence post-Frankish conquest suggests minimal disruption to trade networks and dining habits, though political fragmentation in the 13th century led to regional workshops, with Thebes emerging as a notable latecomer by the mid-13th century. Chalcis' production may have extended into the Ottoman period, highlighting its enduring significance.

Waksman, S. Y., Kontogiannis, N. D., Skartsis, S. S., & Vaxevanis, G. (2014). THE MAIN ‘MIDDLE BYZANTINE PRODUCTION’ AND POTTERY MANUFACTURE IN THEBES AND CHALCIS. The Annual of the British School at Athens, 109, 379–422. https://doi.org/10.1017/s0068245414000148