I reperti vitrei di Vaste e Apigliano (IV-XI SEC.): riciclaggio e continuità delle importazioni orientali

This paper discusses selected glassware from the ecclesiastical and funerary complex of Fondo Giuliano in Vaste (4th-6th century) and from the abandoned medieval village of Apigliano (second phase 7th-11th century). Coupling the results of morpho-typological, contextual and comparative analysis with other data, we attempt to reconstruct the dynamics of production and importation and the trade network. The compositional analysis of the finds, carried out by LA-ICP-MS at IRAMAT-CEB in Orléans, reveals the use of natron glass throughout the period investigated, without the use of soda-ash glass. The recycling of cullet and the import of raw glass or finished products from Egypt and Asia Minor prove to be the two recognised supply channels. This suggests the maintenance of large-scale contacts for the importation of glass throughout the 5th to 11th century, even outside of non-urban centres such as those examined.