Archaic and Early Classical Trade Amphorae from Old Smyrna

Abstract

This study analyzes the commercial amphorae found in Old Smyrna, one of the settlements located in the northeast of the Gulf of Izmir and localized in the Smyrna hinterland. These amphorae, dating from the late seventh century BC to the late fifth century BC, provide data on Smyrna’s commercial relations during the Archaic and Classical Periods and give information about the city’s economic structure. In this study, 50 finds from both previous and recent excavations were examined, grouped according to their production centers, and classified typologically. In the Archaic Period, imported amphorae produced in various centers such as Chios, Clazomenai, Lesbos, Miletos, Samos and Teos, as well as Athens, were in demand in the city. In addition to these groups, the study also includes types that were produced in the Archaic Period, but whose place of production is still under debate. It makes a new contribution to the literature on the typology of these groups with finds from Old Smyrna. Considering the economic activities of the Aegean region, the finds from Old Smyrna offer a wide repertoire of commercial amphorae and provide remarkable data on the commercial relations of the cities.