KOUPHOVOUNO - 2007

Kouphovouno. W. Cavanagh (BSA/Nottingham), C. Mee (BSA/Liverpool) and J. Rénard (Clermont-Ferrand) report that, following the 2007 study season, descriptions and interpretations have now been drafted of the stratigraphic sequences, archaeological features, sediments and finds in each of areas B, C, G and H (Figs 1,2).
The sequence of MNeo contexts from the sondage in area C showed the range of shapes and decorative motifs. Sherds were examined for evidence of manufacture and use wear: even decorated pottery was sometimes exposed to fire, with burned areas inside and out. The M−LNeo transition (evident in area G, especially in the 2006 sondage) is characterized by an increase in storage and cooking vessels. The quality of Urfirnis decoration declines at the end of the MNeo and gradually evolves into the Matt Painted style. Black Ware is also present early in the LNeo period, and even proto Polychrome. Good LNeo contexts in area G enable identification of variation in the proportions of different ware types from the stratigraphy. No clear FNeo levels were noted: possibly the settlement was restricted to the summit of the hill in this period. EBA contexts were associated with stone platforms: ceramics suggest that some date from transitional EH I/II or E EH II, while others represent a more developed stage of EH II and there are also later EH II contexts. The W edge of area G was disturbed by substantial LRom fill and it is evident that there was considerable Rom activity at Kouphovouno. I. Whitbread has identified the main pottery fabrics used: 130 samples will be subject to petrographic analysis in the Fitch Laboratory (BSA).
Initial identification and classification of the animal bones was completed (J. Cantuel). Preliminary observations confirm an overwhelming predominance of domesticated ovicaprines, pig, and cattle, of varying proportions but with the first always predominant. Wild animal bones were not common, but show a variety of species including deer, boar, wild goat, hare, aurochs, wolf and fox.
A pilot study on the physical, chemical and lipid analyses of soil samples is in progress: hydrographic study of the environs of Kouphovouno has been completed (E. Fouache and C. Cosandey) and initial results obtained from micromorphological analysis of samples from the excavation (C. Ballut). In collaboration with the Ε' ΕΠΚΑ, measures were taken for the long-term conservation of the site.