Terra Sigillata Pottery

Holy Land Revealed

Terra Sigillata refers to a style of fine pottery used in Italy; Gaul; Germany. And throughout the Roman Empire from the first century BCE to the third century CE. In the first place, it developed from the traditions of ancient Greek pottery. When they used calcitic clays rich in iron compounds to produce a glossy surface. But it differs from Greek pottery in employing a single-phase firing in an open kiln. It is characterized by its red color, smooth finish, and sometimes by decorations of stamped figures or patterns.



‘terra sigillata’ means ‘clay bearing little images’ (Latin sigilla); not ‘clay with a sealed (impervious) surface’. The archaeological term is applied, however, to plain-surfaced pots and those decorated with relief figures. These pottery types are significant for archaeologists: they can often be closely dated, and their distribution casts light on aspects of the ancient Roman economy.

When excavations in the Jewish Quarter started in the 1970s, Terra Sigillata pottery was found in private homes. These homes belonged to the upper social crust of 2nd Temple Jerusalem. Also, they were found in Herod’s Palace. If you want to see the original artifacts, they are on display in the Israel Museum in Jerusalem today. These high-quality tablewares were popular and widespread in the Western Roman Empire from about 50 BCE to the early 3rd century CE.



Where Can You Find Terra Sigillata Pottery in Israel?

Another chance to see them at the Jewish Quarter. There you have a very impressive archaeological site worth visiting. I mean the Herodian Mansions. This site shows the homes belonging to the upper crust of Second Temple Jerusalem. On my private tours of the Israel Museum in Jerusalem, you’ll have a chance to see them. Also on sites like Herodium National Park or Masada. In both many Terra Sigillata pottery were found.

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

Ancient Jerusalem’s Water Systems

Ancient Jerusalem's water systems were built to provide water for the city's inhabitants and to sustain its agricultural activities.

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.

Tomb of Benei Hezir

The Tomb of Benei Hezir is a tomb hewn from stone in the historic Mount of Olives Jewish cemetery of Jerusalem. Previously (and mistakenly) known ...

Top 10 Archaeological Sites in Israel

Which are the top 10 archaeological sites in Israel? Here is a short list of the must-see archeological sites in the Holy Land!

List of Artifacts in Biblical Archaeology

Here is the ultimate list of artifacts in Biblical Archaeology you must read before coming to tour the Holy Land. It's a must-read!

The Yarmukian Culture

The Yarmukian culture flourished in the Levant during the Neolithic period, leaving behind a rich archaeological legacy.

Australopithecus

In this post, we explore the fascinating world of Australopithecus, unlocking the mysteries of our ancient ancestors.

Khirbet Kerak Ware

Khirbet Kerak Ware (Khirbet Kerak Pottery) is a ceramic family of pottery vessels from the Early Bronze Age III (2300-2700 BCE).

Church of Mary Theotokos (Mount Gerizim)

The Church of Mary Theotokos once graced the landscape as a grand octagonal edifice, emerging in the late fifth century.

Judaea Capta Coin

The "Judaea Capta" coins are ancient Roman coins minted to commemorate the Roman victory in the Jewish War of 66-70 CE.

Need help?

Skip to content