Search
Close this search box.

Philistine Bichrome Ware

Holy Land Revealed

Philistine Bichrome Ware is a distinctive type of pottery produced by the Philistines during the Iron Age (1200-586 BCE). This pottery is characterized by its red and black painted decoration, which often includes stylized animal and plant motifs.


Peter Hagyo-Kovacs, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Philistine Bichrome Ware was first identified by archaeologists excavating the site of Tel Miqne, also known as Ekron, in central Israel. Tel Miqne was one of the five major Philistine cities, and the Philistines occupied it from the 12th to the 7th century BCE.

Excavations at the site revealed large quantities of this type of pottery and other types of Philistine pottery, including Philistine Monochrome Ware and Philistine White Slip Ware.

The Philistines 
The Philistines
King (Pharaoh) Ramses III. Leads Captives Peleset (Philistines) Before Amun and Mut. Relief on the Second Pylon in the First Courtyard of the Mortuary Temple of Ramses III. In Medinet Habu, Egypt.
Credit: Olaf Tausch, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Moreover, the Philistine Bichrome Ware found at Tel Miqne is notable for its high quality and fine craftsmanship. The pottery was produced using a wheel, and the decoration was applied using reeds or animal hair brushes. The black paint used for the decoration was made from iron oxide, while the red paint was made from iron oxide and clay.

In addition to Tel Miqne, Philistine Bichrome Ware has also been found at other Philistine sites in Israel, including Gath, Ashdod, Ashkelon, and Gaza. This pottery was likely produced at specialized workshops in these cities and exported to other regions of the eastern Mediterranean, including Cyprus and Crete.

The discovery of Philistine Bichrome Ware has provided valuable insights into the Philistines’ material culture and artistic traditions. This pottery is a testament to the creativity and skill of the Philistine potters, and it serves as a reminder of the important role that the Philistines played in the history of the eastern Mediterranean during the Iron Age.

arik-about

Hi! My name is Arik, an Israeli native who dedicated his life to sharing my passion for the Holy Land with those interested in knowing more about this incredible piece of land. I’m the Chief Guide at ‘APT Private Tours in Israel’.

Did you know the Hoopoe is Israel's national bird?! For more cool info about Israel, join our ever growing community and get exclusive travel tips, and giveaways!

Simon Peter

RELATED POSTS

The Broad Wall

The Broad Wall is an ancient defensive wall in the Old City of Jerusalem's Jewish Quarter. Dated to the reign of King Hezekiah.

Church of the Seat of Mary

The Church of the Seat of Mary stands as a beacon of faith and devotion. Also known as the Kathisma Church or Church of St. ...

How Do Archaeologists Date Remains They Find?

In my private tours in Israel, I am asked how do archaeologists date remains they find?  When archaeologists dig in a biblical Tel how do ...

John Garstang

John Garstang, a prominent British archaeologist, left an indelible mark on the field of archaeology with his groundbreaking excavations.

Middle Paleolithic Period

The Middle Paleolithic period is a significant epoch in history that witnessed the emergence and development of our ancient human ancestors.

Shiloh Excavations In The City Of David

Yigal Shiloh Excavations In The City Of David left a huge impression on the ancient tel. This post is about his conclusions and results.

The Old Synagogue at Meron

The Old Synagogue at Meron is one of the oldest synagogues found in Israel. And is the earliest example of the so-called 'Galilean' synagogues

Archaeological Discoveries in Caesarea Maritima

There are many Archaeological Discoveries in Caesarea Maritima, some of them are simply fascinating! To learn all about them, click here!

Terra Sigillata Pottery

Terra Sigillata pottery was found in Jerusalem in private homes. These homes belonged to the upper social class of 2nd Temple Jerusalem.

The Hippo Stadium at Caesarea

The Hippo Stadium at Caesarea National Park is well preserved and super impressive. If you're planning to tour the park don't skip it!

Need help?