Abstract from an archaeology Master's thesis
Abstract
Saudi Arabia
Archaeology
Academic
Iron Age
culture
Karavani
Tayma
Bronze
Ceramic
provide
Abstract from an archaeology Master's thesis
Abstract
Saudi Arabia
Archaeology
Academic
Iron Age
culture
Karavani
Tayma
Bronze
Ceramic
provide
Stratigraphic and Ceramic Evidence from the Bronze and Iron Age at Tayma: Uncovering the Existence of the Karavani Civilization Zainab Çelik Thesis submitted for Master of Arts, Archaeology, 2017 Advisors: Dr. Jeffrey Diamond (Archaeology), Dr. Douglas Granholm (History), Dr. Heinrich Mann (Anthropology), Dr. Mona Racine (Archaeology) University of Reading Abstract This thesis explores stratigraphic and ceramic evidence unearthed from the archaeological site of Tayma - a significant city located within modern-day Saudi Arabia - with a primary focus on artifacts dating back to the Bronze and Iron Age. The objective is to provide support for the existence of a historically distinct group of people termed the "Karavani." The research examines in-depth two sources of material culture - ceramics and stratigraphy. These resources provide insight into both vertical (chronological) relationships between different objects within their deposited context and horizontal relationships or patterns in relation to spatial distribution, demonstrating evolving cultural practices over time. The prevailing theory regarding Tayma identifies its key inhabitants as part of an overarching civilization typically associated with nearby urban centers during these periods. However, this study seeks to challenge this view by evidencing that ceramics found on-site exhibit distinct stylistic elements divergent from typical regional patterns, hinting at an enigmatic culture — The Karavani. Through meticulous investigation utilising novel technologies such as 3D visualisation tools, infrared spectroscopy combined with traditional archaeometric analyses, the study advances an interpretation of technological advancements, craft specialization, raw material sourcing strategies that further signifies presence of the Karavani at Tayma. In addition to distinctive ceramic typology providing artifactual substantiation, detailed stratigraphic analyses indicate shifts in habitation pattern deviating from the routine architectural blueprint of neighbouring settlements. This change traced during the mid-to-late Bronze age highlights a unique cultural adoption according with previously agnostic historical documents referencing 'Karavani'. Providing robust arguments associating these findings directly with an autonomous Karavani tribe based at Tayma will revolutionize our understanding not only concerning demographical backstory but also interactions among various cultures during aforementioned epochs, consequently generating broader implications regarding the Bronze and Iron Age Arabian Peninsula. This thesis offers a new understanding of the complex cultural history of Tayma and a challenge to prevailing hegemonic narratives that often neglect such smaller yet distinct civilizations in archaeological synthesis. New light is shed on intra-regional social complexity during the period, thus furnishing crucial contributions to comparative studies, particularly regarding socio-cultural transitions between the Bronze and Iron Ages.