General Information

Early Roman Jiyeh Ware (ERJW) shows close affinity with the Late Hellenistic Jiyeh Ware (LHJW), yet there is enough diversity between the two groups in colour and admixture to easily distinguish between the two groups. It is worth noting that this material is quite similar to Classic Beirut clay. Also it should be mentioned that in the Early Roman production some identical utility vessel groups as the ones from the earlier production, were distinguished. However, diminished diversity in specific types and forms of the utility vessel groups, is noticeable.

ERJW is characterised by surface of reddish-brown colour (2.5 YR 4/8 or 10R 4/8), and very thin fracture with core colour ranging from gray to black. This ware contains very few lime inclusions compared with LHJW, in addition it also contains gray or black particles. However, the ceramic body contains less sand than that in the Late Hellenistic version of the ware, and it also appears more compact.