Mathide Jean

The international workshop Clay in Common: Building Regional Cooperation in Bronze Age Pottery Research in Southeast Asia will take place on May 21–22, 2026, in Leiden. Co-organized by Mathilde Jean (Paris Nanterre University, UMR 8068 TEMPS) and Jennifer Swerida (Leiden University), with support from the Fritz-Thyssen Foundation, it will focus on the study of early ceramics in southeastern Arabia. Research on pottery production in this region remains underdeveloped due to recent archaeological investigations, the late adoption of pottery, and challenges in establishing reliable chronologies.

The workshop aims to bring together international specialists to assess the current state of research and define collaborative strategies. Through thematic sessions and methodological exchanges, participants will identify the main obstacles to a regional synthesis and explore new research avenues. The ambition is to better understand the production, use, and diffusion of ceramics during the Bronze Age, while fostering lasting dialogue and scientific partnerships.

The event will be held in person (limited seats) and online via Zoom.