Date: Thursday, September 29, 2011 5:30 p.m.

Chapter: Arizona

Presenter: Dr. Mary Ownby

Location: University of Arizona Book Store in the Student Union Memorial Center, 1209 E. University Blvd., Tucson, Az., 85721.  (Speedway Blvd. to Mountain Ave., south on Mountain Ave.  Student Union is straight ahead, and a parking garage to the left.).  Call 520-621-2814 for more information.

This lecture is free and open to the public.

Description: Dr. Ownby will be speaking on how scientific analysis of ceramic import jars found in Egypt reveals important information on trade between Egypt and the Levant. These ceramic vessels often carried oil, resin, and wine. Through examination of the clay and inclusions utilized to make these jars, information is gained on where the vessels were produced and thus the trade partners with Egypt. To illustrate the importance of ceramic analysis in our understanding of international relations, several case studies will be presented. Information on trade in the Old Kingdom has been gained by analyzing imported jars from Giza and Helwan. During the Middle Kingdom such jars were found at Tell el-Dab'a in the Delta and Memphis. Their analysis indicates the impact of Levantine peoples living in the Delta on trade with Egypt. Similarly, analysis of jars from New Kingdom levels at Memphis and Amarna clarifies how the Egyptian Empire in the Levant affected trade. Finally, investigation of Late Roman pottery imports from Amarna illustrates the continuity of trade with Levant. Ceramic analysis has revealed the interconnections between Egypt and the Levant, while highlighting the complicated relationship between trade and politics.

Dr. Ownby has been a member of the American Research Center in Egypt (ARCE) for more than a decade and is involved with the ARCE-AZ chapter.