A multi-analytical approach for the archaeometric identification of a Roman period glass furnace in the central Nile delta. (February 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Gentelli, Liesel; Medhat, AbdelRahman
• Is Part Of: Journal of archaeological science. Volume 11(2017)
• Page Start: 330
• Page End: 337
• Publication Date: 2017-02
• Subjects: Roman glass furnace -- Tell Timai -- ATR-FTIR -- SEM-EDS -- Roman Egypt -- Central Nile delta; Archaeology -- Periodicals; Archaeology -- Research -- Periodicals; 930.1
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jasrep.2016.11.018
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2352-409X

Abstract

Abstract: A circular structure was excavated in a suspected industrial area of ancient Thmuis (Tell Timai), and due to heavy vitrification and discolouration of the inside walls, was suspected to be a glass furnace. The excavated furnace provides a unique example to further understand the mechanisms of primary and secondary glass manufacture in Roman Egypt. Samples were subjected to a number of archaeometric investigations in order to characterise the furnace, and identify its purpose. Following attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared (ATR-FTIR) spectroscopy and scanning electron microscope energy dispersive spectroscopy (SEM-EDS), we conclude that the furnace was used for glass. We propose that it is most likely that the furnace represents a small-scale, secondary glassmaking centre, shaping glass manufactured at Wadi el-Natrun, and recycling glass objects from the local area. Highlights: A secondary glass production site in the Nile delta is identified. Evidence for glass manufacture in Roman Egypt Application of analytical techniques to identify unknown samples