STRUMENTAZIONI PER IL FILTRAGGIO NEI CONTESTI DI APPARATO DEL PRIMO PALAZZO DI FESTÒS

In this paper are briefly examined some ceramic objects, recognizable as strainers, found in rooms of the ground floor (LV) and of the first floor (IL and LI), in the SW wing of the Palace at Phaistos. The large specimens were classified into two different groups (A, B) that correspond to their morphological features. The specimens of group B, previously seen as incense burners, have been recognized as belonging to this class of materials. Considering the finding contexts, it’s possible to observe that in each of two floors of the building was used one filter of group A and one of group B, probably in function of different, but complemen- tary operations, (purification of water or other liquid, preparation of infusions, etc.). It’s pos- sible that the shape of these tools was created by the Mesara pottery workshops to cover a spe- cific ceremonial need. With some changes, the form shown in the group, was later adopted in different contexts during the neopalatial period, with perhaps more varied applications