This paper investigates samples of local cooking and utilitarian vessels from Roman contexts at Corinth. Based on macroscopic investigation, the vessels had been assigned to a single ware, but a recent instrumental neutron activation analysis showed that more than one fabric was present. To examine possible variations in shape and function as well as changes of shape over time, selected samples were subjected to thin section petrography, combined with refiring tests and elemental analysis (WD-XRF). The results reveal two main fabrics and one minor one with mineralogical compositions consistent with the geology of the north-eastern Peloponnese; one of them is tentatively linked to Sikyon and another has been identified as a regional product in earlier petrographic studies in the area.

This paper presents the results of a multipronged approach to the study of the Hellenistic and Early Roman ceramic oil lamps excavated at the Agora of Nea Paphos in Cyprus. The assemblage was studied macroscopically, and selected samples were analysed through WD-XRF spectroscopy and thin section petrography, combined with refiring tests. The integrated results revealed that local production changed through time in terms of lamp shapes, manufacturing techniques and clay recipes, while imported lamps originated from a range of sources. The transformations seen in the local production correlate with changes in the origin of imported lamp supply and the impact of other centres on the local lamp manufacture. These patterns in production and supply could be most likely associated with political transformations and urban development.