Pottery finds from hermitage EE.50 in Naqlun. Preliminary assessment of the assemblage

Abstract

Rescue excavations undertaken in hermitage EE.50 in Naqlun in 2016 brought to light an extensive pottery assemblage composed of red-slipped goblets, bowls and plates of Egyptian origin, made of alluvial fabrics, and a few specimens imported from North African workshops. The repertoire of tableware was complemented with qullae made of marl and alluvial clays. Numerous cooking pots, pans and a single lid represent kitchen equipment. Goods were kept in large vessels of different types. Commodities such as wine, olive oil or fish sauce were delivered in amphorae: Egyptian LRA 7 and imported vessels, originating from North Africa (Tunisia), Cilicia, Cyprus and Rhodes(?). This assemblage has revealed some aspects of everyday life in the hermitage and confirmed the independent self-sufficient lifestyle of its inhabitants. The pottery assemblage is from the middle to the end of the 5th century AD.