General InformationThe ware represents a consistent production tradition in terms of the treatment of the clay, surface treatments, finishing, and general workmanship of the vessels. Occurrences of this ware have so far been limited to table vessels consisting of everted rim bowls and large, heavy thickened rim saucers. Currently, the definition of the ware is based entirely on observations of pottery from Tell Timai.
Description
Ptolemaic Silty Grey Tableware is a reduction-fired ware made of a relatively coarse and sandy Nile silt that is loosely packed in its matrix. Some very small bits of rounded lime are present and more rarely medium size bits are observed that can rupture the surface. Silver mica easily observable in sections. The ware is likely fired at a low temperature, producing a moderately soft body with commonly denuded surfaces and abraded breaks. The reduction atmosphere during firing results in a generally grey section, though shifts to dark brown (7.5YR 4/2) with a dark red core (10R 4/4) are possible due to uneven firing. Surfaces are more consistently dark grey/black. A thin, slightly lustrous black slip was observed on some better preserved examples. Dull, matt examples of the slip were more commonly observed. Exterior walls tended to be left plain and were often abraded by larger inclusions being dragged across the surfaces while on the wheel. A distinct feature of the ware is the thickness of the walls, which frequently measure greater than 1cm in thickness.

Tell Atrib (Egypt/Delta/Lower Egypt)

Tell Timai (Egypt/Delta/Lower Egypt)