Observations concerning pottery trays in the Caucasus during the Chalcolithic and Early Bronze Ages

Abstract

Flat trays, which emerged in the Chalcolithic period were possibly composite in the materials used in their manufacture; a clay body supported by an organic casing. The tray was a survival in the cuisine or foodways of the Early Bronze Age, Kura-Araxes’ home in Chobareti despite the tide of cultural change. This pottery form in these later contexts is likely to have retained its primary and culturally significant function as tableware, even if adapted to new fashions in household pottery