PORPHYRA

Study of the ancient purple dye industry provides a dynamic field for new research. Developments in maritime archaeology and the increasing application of specialised field methodologies and laboratory techniques have resulted in a wealth of new data and fresh approaches to older material. The entire process of purple dye production, distribution and use can be traced archaeologically. Crushed and whole purple shells, purple pigment adhered to pottery sherds or individual lumps of it and the fragile remains of purple-dyed fabrics are common finds in excavations on the coasts surrounding the Mediterranean; these finds raise considerable challenges regarding their interpretation and their attribution to specific stages of the process. This volume contributes to this discourse by focusing on the materiality of purple dye production in the regions of Cyprus and the Aegean Sea. Specific case studies ranging from the Bronze Age to the Roman period, combined with a few thematic chapters, underline the importance of high-quality excavation procedures and analysis of finds, the need for collaboration of field excavators and specialists and the paramount importance of contextual analysis. The chapters in this volume showcase, quite effectively, the existence of comprehensive archaeological evidence for an articulate, multi-scalar and culturally embedded marine industry centred on purple dye. They also offer methodological suggestions and interpretation guidelines that could be helpful to excavators who uncover purple dye-related finds.