Archaeometric provenance study of marbles from Porphyreon and Chhim (Lebanon) and early Byzantine production specialisation

Abstract Early Byzantine marble objects from Porphyreon and Chhim (Lebanon) were studied to assess the source of raw materials. In all, 66 artefacts, including elements of liturgical furnishings, architectural elements and daily use objects, were examined using optical, cathodoluminescence and scanning electron microscopy, X‐ray diffraction, and δ 13 C, δ 18 O, 87 Sr/ 86 Sr isotopic analyses. The results indicate that the marbles came mainly from the Prokonnesos and Dokimeion (Turkey). A distinct preference for specific marbles was observed in the production of particular object types and forms, such as chancel screens, table tops and mortars. This study offers the first insights into the specialisation of marble object production during the early Byzantine period.