General Information

Jerash Byzantine-early Islamic Orange-Red Ware (ORW) ware is attested in central Jordan at the site of Jarash, and was used to make a wide range of vessels, such as cups, bowls, dishes, lids, jugs, jars. The vessels could be used with different purpose; not only for table and storage but also cooking, as there are even some casseroles in this group. This ware shows the same features, with few changes, for a long span of time.

This ware has been recognized and named by many scholars working at Jarash. It corresponds with Macellum ware δ (Uscatescu 1996); North Theatre ware C (Clark-Falkner 1986); Artemis Sanctuary ware A (Pierobon 1984, 100); and Hippodrome orange ware (Kehrberg 2009).

Orange-Red Ware has a very similar range of forms as other common table ware groups in the greater southern Levant, such as Byzantine-Islamic Geometric Painted Ware. The clearest differences between this ware and other similar wares are the distinctive orange-red local clay and plain exterior.

Common ware. Local fabric, well fired, wheel thrown. The fabric is hard and shows a low porosity. The inclusions are tiny, few of calcite and very few of grits. This ware often exhibits a grey core.

Macellum ware δ [delta] (Uscatescu 1996); North Theatre ware C (Clark-Falkner 1986); Artemis Sanctuary ware A (Pierobon 1984, 100); Hippodrome orange ware (Kehrberg 2009).

Jerash/Gerasa (Jordan/Northern Highlands)

Pella/Fiḥl (Jordan/Jordan Valley)

Tall Jawa (Jordan/Central Highlands)

Kawm al-Rummān Ouest/3, Kôm er-Rumman/3 (Syria/Hauran)