Ancient glass: from kaleidoscope to crystal ball

• DOI: 10.1016/j.jas.2015.02.021
• Publication Date: 2015-02-20T05:15:22Z
• Authors: Th. Rehren; Ian C. Freestone
• Keywords: Kaleidoscope; Crystal Ball; Ball (mathematics)

Research over the last few decades has greatly enhanced our understanding of production and distribution glass across time space, resulting in an almost kaleidoscopically colourful complex picture. We now recognise several major 'families' composition, including plant-ash based Late Bronze Age Egypt Mesopotamia, Islamic World; mineral natron Greek, Roman Byzantine Empires; mineral-based lead- lead–barium Han period China medieval Europe; wood-ash ash-lime Europe. Other groups include a peculiar granite-based Nigeria, probably southern However, despite two centuries research, we know very little about actual locations technologies for most these groups, how where making was invented. The early literature reflects comparatively limited number individuals research working on glass; only recently there is significant broadening community expansion refinement data base. This enables us to take stock current identify lacunae areas additional work may make contributions Hopefully this will help moving from traditional descriptive often fragmented opportunistic data-gathering phase (asking 'what', 'where' 'when') more interpretative looking with fresh eyes at 'why' 'how' compositional technical developments. opening field includes addressing relationship different industries societies that used glass, they organised its distribution. A overarching issue remains question initial invention idea as well material itself spread. Major debates should ask whether were multiple inventions making; best interpret long-distance trade; ensure compatibility quality; integrate types data, archaeology through craftsmanship typology chemistry optical properties.