Archaeometric Insights into Pre-pottery Neolithic Clay Technologies at Ba`ja, Jordan: Distinguishing Three Types of Clay Objects

Abstract

Increasing evidence of baked clay vessels at the Final Pre-Pottery Neolithic (FPPNB) sites in Fertile Crescent has challenged the traditional distinction between the Pre-Pottery and Pottery Neolithic periods. This study examines a significant collection of FPPNB clay artefacts from the Ba`ja site, Greater Petra Area, Southern Jordan, found during several excavation seasons, that were registered with the category of Unbaked/baked clay objects. We aim to refine our understanding of the early clay technologies in Ba`ja. Specifically, we seek to determine the extent to which these items represent early pottery forms, and explore their technological and functional characteristics. Our task is to conduct a comprehensive archaeometric analysis of selected samples through macroscopic observation, light microscopy, X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy and X-ray powder diffraction to evaluate their material composition, firing temperatures, and subsequently their potential function. This analysis will help clarify the processes involved in their production and use. Analyses revealed the division of investigated clay artefacts into three groups: daub produced from local material (Type 1); vessel or tabun (oven) fragments, some of them from local soil (Type 2) and sherds of a vessel/vessels that was/were probably imported from outside the region (Type 3). Only Type 2, categorised as vessel or tabun fragments, was intentionally affected by fire. Specifically, Type 2B was exposed to temperatures higher than 700 °C. This research highlights the need for further studies on the regional variations and technological processes of clay artefact production in FPPNB.