The Circular Soapstone Pot is an ancient carved artifact discovered on Tarut Island in the Eastern Province of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Dating back to the third millennium BCE, it was used for cooking food. The pot is crafted from soapstone, with a design that widens in the middle and narrows at both the base and the top. It features a narrow opening ending in a plain, upright rim slightly raised above the body. The pot includes four mounted cylindrical handles, distributed vertically around the pot's center with vertical perforations. It has a circular base, and its exterior surface is adorned with a band encircling the neck, centered with a series of carved intaglio circles rotating around the body.
The pot was exhibited as part of a diverse collection of archaeological discoveries from Saudi Arabia in the Saudi Archeological Masterpieces Through the Ages Exhibition. Its discovery is part of the findings from archaeological surveys and excavations conducted by the antiquities and museums sector in Saudi Arabia over the past years, as well as the discoveries of Saudi archaeologists and scientific expeditions.
History of the pot
The soapstone pot dates back to the Dilmun civilization. It is registered under number 1226 and is preserved at the National Museum in Riyadh City.
Measurements of the pot
Height: 9.5 cm.
Opening diameter: Six cm.
Body diameter: 11.5 cm.
Thickness: Five mm.
Significance of the pot
The discovery of this type of soapstone pot highlights the existence of soapstone pottery craftsmanship and the artisan's skill in carving it into such a symmetrical and decorated form. Additionally, the decorative similarities with motifs appearing on vessels from the cultural center of Mesopotamia suggest civilizational connections with ancient civilizations.
Related quizzes
Related articles
