Stratigraphic and Ceramic Observations from the Medieval Strata of Khirbet Shemaʿ, Israel: Assessment of the Value of Scientific Analysis

Abstract

This paper examines the medieval data of Khirbet Shemaʿ, Upper Galilee, Israel, and attempts to show how neutron activation analysis could help resolve the question of the introduction of glazed wares in the 7th century A. D. Whether such new wares signify a new cultural element may not be determined by provenience study alone; but such studies in conjunction with careful stratigraphic and historical analysis may result in a more reliable hypothesis. Regional comparisons and considerations aid in developing such a reconstruction, especially when comparing data from chronologically fixed loci. Coins are especially useful in this regard since their mint marks provide reliable information regarding provenience also. Although many Near Eastern archaeologists refer to glazed wares as "Arab" or "Crusader," such designations do not necessarily reflect the ethnic or cultural context or identity of those artifacts.