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Selected ceramic samples from the archeological site of Khirbet al-Batrawy (north-central Jordan), unearthed in the “Palace of the Copper Axes” (Early Bronze Age III, 2500–2300 BC), were analyzed with the aim to address their technology. These ceramics were characterized by means of a combined use of optical microscopy (OM), X-ray powder diffraction (XRPD) and electron microscopy (SEM–EDS). The results indicate that the main mineral inclusions are quartz and calcite, with minor amount of feldspar, pyroxene, olivine and gehlenite. Fragments of igneous and sedimentary rocks as well as grog (crushed ceramics) and fossil shells have also been identified. The mineral assemblage indicates that the maximum firing temperature of these sherds falls in the 700–850 °C thermal range. The presence of hematite supports the hypothesis of an oxidizing atmosphere of firing. The occurrence of sedimentary and magmatic rocks supports a local provenance of raw materials as these rocks outcrop in the vicinity of the archeological site. Concerning the microstructure, it is established the occurrence of ceramic fabrics not identified until now at the site, suggesting that they were exclusively produced for the Palace. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Twenty one ceramic shreds, from the Early Bronze Age fortified town of Khirbet Al-Batrawy in Jordan, with known archaeological contexts, were tested concerning the preservation of organic residues using gas chromatography -- mass spectrometry (GC-MS) technique. Conventional solvent extraction and alkaline hydrolysis (saponification) were used for the extraction of residues preserved in their fabric. Five of these shreds showed significant preservation of lipid constituents, mainly free fatty acids. The preliminary results of this research provide data on the possible use of plant oil in these vessels and resinous material probably to seal the internal surfaces of the vessels. These results are in conjunction with the archaeological evidence on the availability and use of plant oil in this region, which contribute to the understanding of the usage of ceramic vessels at the site during the Early Bronze Age. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]