The Role of Painted Pottery from Nakhchivan Tepe in Early Azerbaijani Civilizations

Abstract

The article discusses the significance of the painted pottery found at Nakhchivan Tepe during the Chalcolithic period in terms of understanding symbols in early Azerbaijani civilizations. The archaeological importance of Nakhchivan Tepe is particularly evaluated by comparing its common features with the Halaf, Ubaid, and Dalma cultures. Additionally, the general characteristics of the painted pottery are examined, providing information about the forms, chronology, distribution, and usage of these artifacts. The symbolic and socio-cultural meanings of the geometric designs on the painted pottery are also discussed. Research reveals that the painted pottery provides clues about the ways in which ancient societies understood the world and contains valuable information about the daily lives of Chalcolithic period people. The pottery found at Nakhchivan Tepe has made valuable contributions to regional research, both archaeologically and culturally. This study helps us better understand the spiritual heritage of past civilizations through the comparison of such artifacts with other cultural elements.