Painting and colors on the pottery of Shahr-i Sokhta, Iran 2000 - 3000 BC

This thesis explores 13 pottery shards unearthed from the Eastern Residential Area of Shahr-i Sōkhta, a Bronze Age early city of the Helmand Civilization, extending from the valleys of the Kandahar region in Afghanistan to the endoreic basin of Sistan, in Iran. This part of the site, which situated at the highest point and to the north of the Burnt Building, has yielded a wealth of pottery artifacts through significant excavations. The focus is on pottery fragments dating from early Period II to Period III (about 3000-2500 BC). The primary objective of this study is to chemically characterize these pottery shards and to trace possible changes over time of the composition of the clay slips used for painting. Additionally, the research examines the interaction between firing technology and ceramic properties, as well as how the ceramic body interacts with the applied colours. Detailed analyses using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were conducted to understand the microstructural and compositional attributes of the pottery. The findings aim to provide preliminary insights into the technological advancements and aesthetic developments in pottery production during this significant period of the Shahr-i Sōkhta urban life. This study is expected to contribute preliminary to our understanding of the cultural and technological developments in Shahr-i Sōkhta. By linking the chemical, technological, and visual aspects of the pottery, this research provides a holistic view of the craftsmanship and innovation of this Bronze Age society, enhancing our appreciation of their contributions to the ancient coeval civilizations.