Jugs. XIV c.

Medieval jugs were of medium size and used for storing and transporting liquids and dry food in everyday life. The shape of the vessel was designed for practical use, with a handle on one side for holding. The upper part of one jug was completely missing, so restoration work was carried out to restore the original form as much as possible. This work ensured the preservation of the historical artifact and allowed its inclusion in scientific research. The vessels are made of red clay, characteristic of ceramic production technologies of the period. The quality and color of the clay indicate a high level of firing.

 

Pitchers. XIV c.

These ceramic pitchers were a common type of medieval household vessel. They were spherical in shape and medium in size, making them convenient for everyday use. Kumgans were mainly used to store and pour water, drinks, or other liquids. In two preserved jars, the lower part below the waist was missing. After archaeological studies, restoration work was carried out to reconstruct the original shape and proportions, preserving their historical and artistic value.

 

Jugs with stamped ornaments. XIII-XIV cc.

Several types of clay were used for making stamped ceramic items, which increased the durability and decorative quality of the vessels. Stamped vessels were usually assembled from separate parts. After stamping, the surface was further processed: sometimes patterns were enhanced with carving or engraving, and sometimes decorated with small stamps. Decorative motifs included plant patterns, geometric shapes, and Arabic epigraphic inscriptions, often placed along the rim or body for both decorative and symbolic purposes. These features demonstrate the high artistic level of medieval ceramic craftsmanship.

 

Chigir vessels. XIV c.

These vessels were part of a water-lifting system from the Zhaiyk River. The device worked as a rotating mechanism similar to a circular mill. One large wheel held more than thirty ceramic buckets. The system was installed above or near the river. Draft animals rotated the wheel, lifting water from the river and directing it through channels for irrigation or household use. The buckets were made of strong, water-resistant ceramics, and their shape and size allowed efficient water transport. While simple in appearance, these vessels required significant engineering skill.

 

Water pipes. XIII-XIV cc.

In medieval times, ceramic pipes were used for water supply, sewage, and domestic needs. Made of high-fired clay, they were water- and moisture-resistant. Their shape and size varied according to function: some were narrow and long, others wide and short. This diversity allowed for pressure control, flow direction, and adaptation to terrain. Pipes were connected into integrated systems, demonstrating advanced engineering, construction culture, and ceramic production of the period.

 

Heat pipes. XIII-XIV cc.

Ceramic chimneys/heat pipes were used for heating residential and public buildings. They removed smoke from stoves and boilers and evenly distributed heat. Their construction was durable, heat-resistant, and long-lasting. Size and shape depended on building layout and heating system design. Most chimneys were narrow and tall, extending above the roof. Their use demonstrates the development of medieval engineering and construction technology.

  

Bath stones. XIII-XIV cc.

These bricks were used to pave bathhouse floors. Made of ceramic, they ensured quick and efficient drainage of wastewater. Their shape and layout directed water into drains or channels. Water-resistant and durable, they allowed long-term use. These bricks provide important archaeological evidence of medieval engineering, hygiene, and wastewater management.

 

Bath item. XIII-XIV cc.

Basins were used for household and domestic purposes, particularly widely in bathhouses. They were sometimes called “black-glossy” due to their characteristic appearance. The production of basins required a special technique: after shaping, the vessel was polished to a black shine. The base material was iron-rich clay, fired in a special reducing atmosphere. After firing, the basins underwent additional treatment: they were dipped in a flour solution or water with leaves. As a result, a dense black “coating” formed on the surface, which increased the vessel’s strength and made it water-resistant. Such basins were used in bathhouses as containers for water or other liquids.