Ancient Beeswax Lamps Solve Copper Age Mystery of Cone-Shaped Vessels
Archaeologists have finally unravelled a decades-old mystery surrounding enigmatic cone-shaped vessels from the Copper Age, identifying them as beeswax lamps used during ancient community vigils. This groundbreaking discovery comes from a new study that examined one of the most extensive collections of these objects, providing vital clues that have long eluded researchers.
Decades of Perplexity
For decades, these conical ceramic vessels, common during the Chalcolithic period between 5000 BC and 3300 BC, have puzzled archaeologists. Recovered in abundance from archaeological sites in Israel, such as Ashkelon, 'En Gedi, Abu Hof, and Grar, they often featured light or red ceramic slip coatings. Despite their prevalence, no evidence exists of their use at other times, leaving their function shrouded in mystery.
Previous studies suggested these vessels were made locally, likely by residents, though some examples were produced farther away by specialised potters. Theories on their use ranged from dairy farming and copper-smelting to straightforward lamps, but the latter was disputed due to the absence of soot marks within the vessels.
Systematic Study Reveals Clues
Now, researchers from Tel Aviv University have conducted the first systematic study of these objects, focusing on a collection discovered at the Copper Age site of Teleilat Ghassul between 1929 and 1999. Assessing 35 complete vessels and 550 cornet shards, scientists tested whether these cone-shaped objects served as beeswax lamps.
The findings, described as "perplexing" by researchers, revealed a wide variety of clay used in the cones. "Cornets are made from very coarse clay as well as from fine clay; some are heavy and compact, while others are lightweight and porous; some are made from a uniform and smooth material, while others contain large and varied non-plastic particles," they explained in the study published in the journal Tel Aviv.
Intricate Craftsmanship and Unfinished Interiors
Most vessels were crafted from a single lump of clay, shaped using a round-cut stick inserted lengthwise, with the base hand-pulled to create the characteristic cone shape. Artisans likely took about 10 minutes to make each vessel, yet despite this intricate process, all seemed to have unfinished interiors.
"Smoothing the inner surface of the cornet is simple and quick, yet it seems that the maker chose not to invest any effort in this. One possible explanation is that the cornet’s contents consistently covered its inner surface," researchers wrote. This observation, combined with the discovery of soot deposits in some vessels, confirmed their function as beeswax lamps.
Ceremonial Use in Ancient Vigils
Following the entire life cycle of these cones, researchers speculate they were produced specifically for ceremonies by the participants themselves. The cornets, they say, "were used for lighting in vigil events at Teleilat Ghassul, events depicted in wall paintings at the site." This suggests a communal or ritualistic purpose, shedding light on ancient social practices.
This study not only solves a long-standing archaeological puzzle but also offers insights into the daily lives and ceremonial activities of Copper Age communities in the Middle East. The combination of soot evidence and unfinished interiors points to a practical yet symbolic use, highlighting the ingenuity of ancient artisans.
