Image Details

The “Orpheus jug.” Named after the mythic Greek hero who could charm animals with music, this elaborately decorated vessel depicts a human figure with a lyre leading a procession of animals. The style is distinctly Philistine, with characteristic horizontal bands and geometric shapes. The discovery of this jug in Stratum VIA has led some scholars to suggest that the city had been conquered by the Philistines, but it could also indicate simply a Philistine presence in the city or just trade with some Philistine merchants from elsewhere.