Philistine Bichrome ware (also known as Philistine 2) developed from the Philistine 1 assemblage and forms a unique amalgamation of Aegean, Canaanite, Cypriote and Egyptian ceramic styles, the Aegean element being dominant. This ware has a darker fabric than Philistine Monochrome, from which it develops. The core of the repertoire of the Philistine Bichrome style is comprised of forms that continue from Philistine Monochrome style: bell-shaped bowls, kraters, stirrup jars, feeding bottles and strainer jugs. Other Philistine Monochrome types do not appear in the Philistine Bichrome assemblage, among them small carinated bowls with strap handles, various round-sided bowls, and kylikes. On the other hand, new types are introduced to the ...
Philistine Bichrome vessels usually have dark-gray, brown or orange color, a considerable amount of inclusions, a texture softer than that of Philistine Monochrome vessels, and frequently a core. Most have bichrome red and black (less frequently, red and brown) decoration, usually on the background of white slip. Some, however, are decorated in one color – black or reddish-brown. The fabric, surface finish and formation technique of debased Philistine wares are generally identical to...
