Interdisciplinary Approaches to Small Objects in the Mediterranean

Across the Mediterranean, small objects have often been labelled as religious, artistic, or special finds. In recent years, however, scholars have sought to reassess these artefacts, moving beyond traditional classifications to explore their diverse roles, meanings, and functions within past societies.

Originating from discussions at the 29th Annual Meeting of the European Association of Archaeologists (Belfast, 2023), the interdisciplinary contributions brought together here challenge conventional typologies and explore new frameworks grounded in materiality, context, and use. Case studies span the Mediterranean-from Egyptian funerary items and Mesopotamian inscriptions to Roman pottery stamps and medieval metalwork-revealing the multifaceted roles of small artefacts in past societies.

By integrating archaeology, art history, epigraphy, and material culture studies, the book highlights how these objects illuminate belief systems, technological practices, and social interactions. A valuable resource for scholars and students, it invites readers to rethink analytical categories and engage with evolving debates on the significance of small objects in the archaeological record.