Abstract

The Nabataeans are notable for their eggshell-thin fine ware pottery on which they often painted plant motifs. Since the discovery of these painted fine wares, several archaeologists have attempted to identify some of the plants depicted on the vessels. However, these attempts have often been incidental and not explicitly systematic. The purpose of this study is to apply the principles of plant taxonomy to identify eleven flower motifs that are depicted on Nabataean fine wares and to then determine what significance these flowers held for the Nabataeans. By using the principles of plant taxonomy, this thesis was able to confidently identify ten flower taxa from eleven motifs that the Nabataeans depicted on their painted fine wares: Punica sp., Colchicum sp., Vinca sp., Brassicaceae, Irideae, Crocus sp., Silene sp., Convolvulaceae, Rosa sp., and Nymphaeaceae. After analyzing these flower taxa for their native distribution, cultural significance, medicinal properties, and association with wine, this thesis found that the Nabataeans depicted local flowers on their painted fine wares and also that these flowers were not only used for medicine, but often symbolized fertility, life, death, resurrection, and immortality. From these findings, this thesis argues that the Nabataeans used their painted fine wares, among other wares, for healing rituals and possibly funerary feasts.

Degree

College and Department

Family, Home, and Social Sciences; Anthropology

Rights

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