Eastern Sigillata Ware Jug

During the Early Roman Period (1st century B.C.E.), a glossy red-slipped pottery called Eastern Sigillata ware began to appear in Israel. It is believed to be a local imitation of the very fine mold-made Samian or Arretine ware produced as luxury items during the Roman Period in Italy and Gaul, some of which also found its way to Israel. The term "sigillata" means "stamped" and generally signifies that the vessel bears a potter's stamp; sometimes the term " sigliata" is used, which means "initialed." Frequently, the local imitations do not bear a stamp.