Glazed Jugs. XIII-XIV cc.

These jugs are highly artistic examples of medieval craftsmanship. Their surfaces are decorated with transparent agate-like and rich dark-blue glazes. To achieve the ultramarine, deep blue hue, cobalt was added to the glaze. Cobalt is a valuable metallic element that gives ceramics a vivid blue color and was widely used by Eastern and European craftsmen in the 13th–14th centuries. The glazed surfaces of the vessels are smooth, glossy, and reflective, enhancing both their decorative appeal and practical value.

Trebizond amphora. XIV c.

The Trebizond amphora is a type of ceramic vessel dating to the medieval period. It was produced in the city of Trebizond (modern-day Trabzon) or its surrounding areas on the Black Sea coast, in present-day Turkey. Amphorae became widespread in the 13th–14th centuries. Their main purpose was the transportation and storage of wine, oil, and other liquid products. They typically featured a long, narrow neck, two handles, and a pointed or rounded base, making them convenient for both maritime and overland trade routes. The discovery of Trebizond amphorae indicates well-developed international trade connections. Finds in cities such as Saraishyq confirm the region’s integration into the Great Silk Road system and its close economic ties with the Black Sea region.

Khums. XIV c.

A khum is a very large domestic clay vessel. In ancient and medieval cities, it was used to store liquids (water, wine, oil) as well as grain, flour, salt, and other products. Khums were often partially or completely buried in the ground, which helped preserve their contents for long periods. These vessels had thick walls, wide mouths, and rounded shapes. Some examples were decorated with simple lines or relief ornamentation. Khums played an important role not only in everyday life but also in the economic and commercial systems of urban populations.

Glazed ceramic products. XIII-XIV cc.

Glazed ceramic wares of the 13th–14th centuries reflect the high level of urban culture in the medieval period. During this time, ceramics were coated with special glazes and decorated with a variety of colors and ornaments. Glazing techniques not only improved the appearance of the vessels but also increased their durability, leading to their widespread use in daily life. Such ceramics were used for dining, food storage, and household purposes. The complexity of the production technology and the richness of the color palette testify to the high professionalism of craftsmen and the well-developed cultural and trade connections of the era.

Albarello. XIV с.

An albarello is a cylindrical ceramic vessel with a wide mouth and a slightly narrowed middle. It was used mainly in pharmacy. Such vessels were used to store medicinal herbs, powders, ointments, and various healing mixtures. The surface of an albarello was usually covered with glaze and decorated with vegetal, geometric, or inscribed ornamentation. The glaze protected the contents from moisture and ensured long-term preservation. Albarello reflect the mutual influence of Eastern and Western craft traditions, and finds of these vessels confirm the high level of development in medicine, pharmacy, and ceramic art during this period.