Special Studies: Petrographic Thin Sections and the Development of Neolithic Plaster Production in Northern Israel

Abstract

Petrographic and petrological techniques have been used to examine Neolithic plaster products from several sites in northern Israel. Referring to former studies, the value of different analytical methods for the examination of ancient plasters and mortars is considered. The new data, achieved by the relatively simple method of Petrographic examination, reveal a different interpretation of Neolithic craft specialization and cultural interchange. The production methods of architectural plasters, together with plaster products (e.g., beads, figurines, “white ware” vessels, etc.), differ significantly between sites, even in the limited region of the Israeli Galilee. In most cases, burnt lime was used as a secondary raw material, together with powdered chalk, sand, and clay. In our view, lime burning was a casual, limited activity that did not require intensive labor. Therefore, fulltime specialists would not have been required and, what is more, the complexity of Neolithic society, based on considerations of plaster technology, has yet to be clearly demonstrated.