GMKIBAROGLU
The Southeast Anatolia Project (SOAP): Archaeometric and Archaeological Investigations of Early Bronze Age Pottery and Settlements
The project focused on understanding the origins, distribution, and technological features of "Metallic Ware," which is characterized by its dense, high-temperature firing, metallic sound, and unique aesthetic. These ceramics are associated with circular fortified settlements, known as "Kranzhügel," which reflect organized urban planning. Despite their advanced characteristics, this cultural group remains largely enigmatic due to the absence of written records.
The project adopted an interdisciplinary approach, combining field surveys, archaeometric analyses, and collaborative research with local institutions. Fieldwork involved sampling ceramics and geological clays from key sites in Southeast Anatolia. Laboratory analyses, including petrographic studies, elemental analysis, and radiogenic isotope analysis (Sr and Nd), were conducted to trace the raw materials and production techniques of Metallic Ware. The project also examined the distribution of related ceramic types, such as "Combed Wash Ware," to evaluate their cultural and technological connections.
Duration: 2009–2012
Responsibilities: (Project Executor) Responsible for field work, sample collection, coordination of archaeometric analyses, data evaluation, and publication of results.
Applicant: Prof. Dr. Jan-Waalke Meyer (Goethe University Frankfurt)
Team: Dr. Mustafa Kibaroğlu (University of Tübingen), Dr. Christian Falb (Goethe University Frankfurt)
Funding Institutions: German Research Foundation (DFG).
Fig. 1. A topographic map of the distribution area of North Mesopotamian Metallic Ware and the location of Kranzhügel settlements in southeastern Anatolia and northern Syria and the Vessel types of North Mesopotamian Metallic Ware (after Kibaroğlu et al., 2017, Falb, 2009b, p. 64, Fig. 3.1).