Remarks on stone vessels from Islamic layers on Bijan Island

Abstract

Excavations on Bijan Island in western Iraq were conducted by the Polish Centre of Mediterranean Archaeology, University of Warsaw, in 1979–1983, as part of the international Haditha Dam rescue project. A multi-layered site was uncovered, featuring complex architectural structures and a rich archaeological assemblage. Four main settlement phases were distinguished: Neo-Assyrian, Parthian, Roman and early Islamic. The present paper focuses on stone vessels attesting to extensive use of stone for utility purposes. The assemblage complements knowledgeabout the inhabitants of early Islamic Bijan and their economic activities

Keywords

• stone lamps
• Bijan
• soft stone / soapstone / steatite vessels
• Abbasid
• Nishapur