Uncommon Scents: The Greco-Roman Fragrance Industry at Thmuis, Tell Timai, Egypt

Summary

This is an abstract from the "SAA 2021: General Sessions" session, at the 86th annual meeting of the Society for American Archaeology.

Ancient sources reference the quality and importance of perfume manufactured in the Mendesian nome through the periods of Hellenistic and Roman control of Egypt. Archaeological evidence has identified areas of manufacture for Greek-style lekythoi, Roman Unguentaria, and possibly a location to produce incense at the site of Tell Timai that dates to the period of Cleopatra VII. Sourcing analysis has demonstrated that special clay was imported from a great distance suggesting an extensive network of trade and possibly an investment in the magical properties of perfume bottles. Experimental archaeology has resulted in the recreation of the Mendesian perfume bringing the famous fragrance back to life. A picture of an extensive multinational network involved in the manufacture, marketing, and distribution of Mendesian perfume indicates an industry that spanned the Mediterranean world.

This Resource is Part of the Following Collections

• Society for American Archaeology 86th Annual Meeting, Online (2021)   •
• SAA 2021: General Sessions

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Record Identifiers

Abstract Id(s): 32414