An Encyclopaedia of Indian Archaeology v2.c44.467

v2.c44.467

*Pd I*. The earliest Pd is described as Harappa, but predominance of one ceramic tradition or another in particular areas or levels suggests that the remains of the Pd should be divided into phases A, B and C. Evidence of Phase I A was found mainly in trench RPR-I and its extensions, cutting the n. edge of the mound at the centre. Here in a representative section, although the lowest two layers 35 B and 35 A, have some Harappa pottery and other objects, the deposit is dominated by pre-Harappa wares, among which may be identified SOTHI/Kalībangan I fabrics and types [11.2], and some other cognate wares from other sites. The dominating type is a medium-sized vase of matt red ware, with a wide black band painted at its concave neck and with an almost featureless rim. The neck and body are potted separately and subsequently luted. Fabric A of KALIBANGAN I is represented by the concave-necked vase and bowl with flaring side characterized by irregular striations, dull plum-red surface and black-painted bands or criss-cross designs. Sherds with black and white paintings in typical KALIBANGAN I fabric also occur. To the same assemblage belongs a thick sherd with white-filled black-painted sun or flower symbol, a tradition noted in the pre-Harappa context at other sites. Examples of Fabric D of KALIBANGAN I are provided by the thick jar with ledged neck and out-turned rim and large carinated bowl. Roughened surface with wavy combings, a wet ware technique typical of Fabric B of KALIBANGAN I, is also in evidence. Characteristic of Phase I A are two surfaces, dull plum-red and matt ochre-red. Most of the pots are painted with dull-black bands on rims, necks and shoulder. The inside of the rim also often bears a painted band.