Early medieval amphora with a Hebrew inscription on the lead seal from Phanagoria
The article presents an amphora found in Phanagoria in the layer of the last quarter of the 9th-early 10th century. It bears a dipinto in black and two graffiti (its interpretation by A.Yu. Vinogradov is given in the Supplement). Of great interest is the lead seal inserted into one of its handles with a Hebrew inscription interpreted by Prof. Shaul Shaked. The practice of stamping amphorae with lead seals was never used in antique or medieval periods which makes this find really unique. The Hebrew language was not intended for everyday communication and was usually used for cult and ritual purposes. Hebrew inscriptions and Judaic symbols on amphorae were sings of the kosher product contained in it. Moreover, the vessels themselves were also produced according to special rules, most likely, within Jewish communities for transportation of such products and supply of other Jewish communities. Thus, the amphora can be regarded as the archaeological evidence of the presence of the Judaic community in Phanagoria in the “Khazarian” period. Taking into account the significance the Jews attached to the production and transportation of kosher products it is logical to suppose that amphora was brought to Phanagoria by Jewish merchants, Radhanites, known from the “Book of Ways and Lands” by ibn Hordadbeh (IX c.) and “Concise Book of Lands” by ibn al-Faqih (903).