The trade and distribution of ceramics in the Western Indian Ocean 1250-1550AD

An analysis of current available assemblages from Arabia, Iran and East Africa

Abstract

This thesis is designed to make a generalized study of the ceramics present in the Western Indian Ocean during the period 1250AD- 1550AD, the period of expansion of the Hormuzi trading empire and its associated site of Julfar. The first part presents an analysis of the recently excavated assemblage from Julfar al-Nudud and then sets out to contextualize this within the wider Indian Ocean. Bringing in the available data from important trading sites in Arabia, southern Iran and East Africa, the work demonstrates a series of generalized assemblages based on period and geographical location, along with identifying a ‘ceramic trading’ assemblage for the study area. This puts forward that certain wares, generally Gulf and Chinese high- quality glazed wares are likely to be found on most sites involved in trade during this time, although not necessarily in great quantities. Other unglazed Iranian and Arabian storage wares, presumably traded for their contents rather than the vessel itself are found in greater quantities but individual wares vary between sites. The study finally identifies the areas where data is currently insufficient and suggests important future research questions for the study area.