L. Colliva, S. Mancini, “Stucco Productions from Gawr Tepe (KRI, Iraq). Preliminary results of a  MiSAK-eartHeritage Multidisciplinary and Comparative Study”. International Conference Connecting stucco in the Mediterranean (c. 300 BCE – 1200 CE). Methodological approaches and the state of research, Ankara, Bilkent University – Erimtan Museum.

Abstract: MiSAK, the Italian Historical and Archaeological Mission in Kurdistan, was established in 2021 by ISMEO―The International Association for Mediterranean and Oriental Studies, and the International Institute of Kurdish Culture in Rome. Since its inception, MiSAK has actively participated in research within the Autonomous Region of Iraqi Kurdistan (KRI), focusing on studying and enhancing the archaeological sites of Sarqala and Gawr Tepe. More specifically, Gawr Tepe, situated approximately 8 km south of Kalar in the Governorate of Sulaimaniyah (KRI, Iraq), has been identified as a sizable settlement characterised by remains of an impressive palace believed to have been established during the Sasanian period and subsequently also occupied during the Islamic era. MiSAK initiated investigations at Gawr Tepe in 2023, conducting a topographic survey and systematically collecting surface archaeological materials. While the collected data is still under study, initial findings have unveiled some stuccoes that likely adorned the palace throughout its various phases. Some fragments show recognisable decorative elements traceable to the Sasanian period productions, while others have possible comparisons with Islamic period productions. Furthermore, preliminary optical analysis suggested the presence of at least two potentially distinct productions with different fabric compositions. In particular, some fragments appear to be characterised by a high percentage of gypsum, rendering it particularly loosely cohesive and chalky. To further explore these aspects, alongside stylistic and archaeological studies, MiSAK, with support and authorisation from the KRG General Directorate of Antiquities and Heritage and the Garmian Directorate of Antiquities, exported samples of stucco, plaster, and mortar from Gawr Tepe and other sites in the region to start a comparative compositional analysis. These studies are part of the PRIN2022 project “eartHeritage”, which proposes an interdisciplinary, diachronic and trans-areal study of Central Asia’s clay and stucco productions between the 3rd century BCE – 8th century CE.