Scientists explained what the strange cone-shaped vessels were for

This conclusion was reached by a group of researchers led by Sharon Zuchowicki, who published their work in the Tel Aviv journal.

Cornets are found only in the Eneolithic period and in some places they are found en masse, while at other monuments they are almost absent. Because of this, their purpose has been a matter of debate for many years. Among the versions were quite "everyday" - for example, their use in early dairy production - and technological ones: connection with metallurgy by the method of "wax model" (this was indicated by traces of wax found on some finds). The lamp hypothesis was also discussed, but it was criticised because no traces of soot were found on many vessels.

The new work was the first systematic attempt to dismantle a large collection of cornet from the Telaylat-Gassul monument (Jordan). The scientists studied 35 whole vessels and about 550 fragments from the collection of the Museum of the Pontifical Biblical Institute. These finds come from excavations between 1929 and 1999.

The analyses showed that the collection can be divided into four main types. Most of the vessels, judging from the materials, were made locally - probably by local people. At the same time, one type stood out for its higher quality and standardisation, which may indicate the work of specialised potters.

The researchers also reconstructed the manufacturing technology. According to their data, the cornet was formed from a single lump of clay: a roundly cut stick was inserted inside to set the shape, and the base was then pulled out by hand, producing a characteristic "cone". Experiments showed that it could take about 10 minutes to make one such vessel.

The key argument in favour of the "lamp" version was the traces of soot found inside part of the cornet, as well as experimental tests of replicas. During the experiments, the vessels were filled with beeswax - and such lamps could burn for up to nine hours (depending on the quantity and quality of wax). To reduce the consumption of valuable material and raise the flame higher, the researcher suggested a practical method: partially fill the vessel, for example, with clay, and only then add wax.

The authors point out: in the Chalcolithic, wax was probably obtained from wild beehives, meaning it was a limited and valuable resource. This fits well with where cornetts are usually found: in special areas sometimes interpreted as cult storage (favissae), and in spaces with wall paintings depicting processions, masks and animals. Researchers suggest that the lamps were used during rituals and then may have been deliberately broken, as hinted at by the impact marks and the large number of shards.