Patterns of Pottery Usage in Middle Bronze Age Canaanite Palaces

The article explores patterns of pottery usage in Middle Bronze Age palaces in Israel, examining mainly aspects of feasting and storage. Middle Bronze palatial assemblages are typologically similar to assemblages from contemporaneous domestic contexts. Prestige vessels are rare and can usually be associated with banqueting. Vessel-type ratios in assemblages from MB I palaces exhibit a balance between storage and food preparation and consumption. However, the assemblages in the MB II palaces vary considerably. While some were geared toward serving food and drink, others reflect a stronger emphasis on storage. Feasting activities in Canaanite palaces, as reflected by the ceramics, was on a significantly smaller scale than it was in palaces in the Aegean or other Near Eastern regions. Storage spaces in Middle Bronze Canaanite palaces were also on a smaller scale and not intended for public purposes. Finally, the usage of imported or specialized (ceremonial or oversized) vessels was limited in Canaanite palaces.