Technological changes in the glazed wares of northern Tunisia in the transition from Fatimid to Zirid rule

A representative selection of glazed ceramics recovered from medieval Islamic contexts excavated in the former Roman port Utica (North Tunisia) (23 99 pieces) has revealed new data about glaze technologies central Mediterranean. Stratified sequences pottery have established four main phases occupation which span mid-tenth to mid-eleventh centuries. Significant changes range wares are found Zirid period with respect late Fatimid period: whereas polychrome yellow-amber ware Kairouan region was practically only supplied period, a varied produced various techniques tenth century, early period. These types become dominant eleventh century. Up six different glazing been identified by SEM–EDX and optical microscopy, including transparent opaque glazes underglaze overglaze decoration respectively. The absence tin all vessels confirms obtained previous study Bir Ftouha. Though it repeatedly stated that used produce white background Fatimid-Zirid Tunisia, this achieved adding quartz glaze. Some imports Sicily al-Andalus detected: their appearance early-mid century is significant as seems indicate first stage re-activation Mediterranean commerce, increased course following