An Inkwell from the Neapolis Necropolis in the Light of Historical and Cultural Data

Ink is a long-established and important material that has been used to transfer words, pictures and drawings since antiquity. Inkwells, which are part of writing sets, were originally made of shellfish, and later of materials such as terracotta, glass, faience or metal. A terracotta inkwell was recovered from a chamber tomb unearthed during a rescue excavation in the necropolis of the ancient city of Neapolis in 2010. The artifact is an impressive proof of the grave owner's literacy and possible importance in the society. The inkwell has a cavity in the center of the rim (melandokhe) and the sides are grooved. Remains of ink are also clearly visible on the artifact. It is important that this rare artifact was recovered from Neapolis. Based on analogical evaluations of the artifact with its glass, bronze, faience and terracotta counterparts and period characteristics, it is concluded that it can be dated to the 1st-2nd century CE.