Late Roman Unguentaria from the Great Bath of Syedra: Typology, Trade Networks, and Functional Contexts

This study comprehensively examines the Late Roman unguentaria recovered during the Great Bath excavations conducted between 2019 and 2023 in this context, it focuses on the typology, trade networks, and functional contexts of these vessels. A total of 16 examples dated between the 5th and 7th centuries AD have been evaluated in detail, eight of which are of the standard spindle shape, while the remaining eight bear monograms. Although limited in number, the detailed presentation of these unguentaria is significant due to the presence of unique monograms and the recovery of three rare examples preserving terracotta stoppers with thin, everted rims. This evidence is also noteworthy in terms of its potential to enrich the existing repertoire of monograms established in previous studies on the subject. The presence of monograms, usually positioned near the base and centered around X, Π, and + motifs, may indicate individual identities or workshop marks while simultaneously serving as chronological indicators. Comparisons with parallel finds from settlements such as Perge, Ephesos, Laodikeia, Kibyra, and Antiocheia demonstrate the existence of an extensive trade network connecting Pamphylia, Pisidia, and Western Anatolia with the Eastern Mediterranean.