Classification, Typology and Chronological Analysis of the Islamic Middle Ages Pottery from Robāt-e Āghāj, Khomeyn County

Authors

1 Assistant Professor, Department of Archaeology, Faculty of Literature and Humanities, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran (Corresponding Author).

2 Assistant Professor, Department of Archaeology, Faculty of Literature and Human Sciences, Lorestan University, Iran

10.22084/nb.2024.28208.2618

Abstract

The troglodytic complex of Robāt-e Āghāj, nestled within a 50-meter-tall hill, holds great historical importance in Khomeyn County. The inaugural archaeological excavation season of this site occurred in 2015, unearthing a variety of architectural spaces and archaeological findings. Notably, the most abundant findings at this site consist of diverse unglazed and glazed potsherds belonging to the Islamic era. A diverse array of pottery types has been unearthed from the site, ranging from plain unglazed pieces to those adorned with impressed patterns, as well as pottery featuring incised and excised motifs, molded motifs, monochromatic glazed pottery, blue-and-white porcelain, lusterware, and enamelware. The significance of addressing these findings lies in the fact that all these types are linked to the Islamic Middle Ages, suggesting that they were crafted and employed during that specific era. Through the current research, a comparative source on medieval pottery in Markazi Province and Iran can be established. The primary focus of this study revolves around the comparative chronology of these pottery items and their potential production centers. Employing a descriptive-comparative method, data collection involves field surveys and desk research. The findings indicate that the majority of the potsherds discovered likely dates back to the 6th and 7th centuries AH. Furthermore, similarities were observed between these artifacts and those from production centers like Zolfabād, Moshkoye, Kāshān, and Ray, suggesting a possible exportation to Khomeyn, as archaeological studies have confirmed this claim. These similarities were also noted in historical sites such as troglodytic complexes at Tahyaq-e Khomeyn, Sāmen-e Malāyer, and Arzānfud in Hamadān.

Keywords

Main Subjects

References

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pazhoheshha-ye Bastan shenasi Iran
Volume 14, Issue 41
English Articles
September 2024
Pages 227-247

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