Depositional data for unit J5
Discard

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Discards related to use through time

There are relatively few examples of discard in J5. In the earliest stage (Early Dynastic) yet excavated, the revetment wall system (wall, glacis, and escarpment) served to separate sacred from secular activity regions. Dumping, pits, and burials would have been inappropriate either on the mound or near the bottom of the revetment wall.

During the interval when we have no accretion or construction evidence (EDIII to early Mittani periods) we do not know what took place. If indeed there was occupation and activity, the evidence was removed by the Mittani before they began to use the space.

In the first half of the Mittani period, we have no excavation data to suggest that the mound contained inside the revetment wall was regarded as anything but a part of sacred space. However, outside the wall numerous sling balls and grindstones along with an absence of ash suggest clean industrial activity. In the parts excavated, there is no evidence of discard.

In the second half of the Mittani period the relocation of the temple entrance, monumental stairway, plaza, and revetment wall to the west firmly established the area on both sides of the wall as sacred. Discards here would have been inappropriate.

Upon abandonment, the entire mound reverted to secular use. During scattered occupation events, one pit, a1, was dug and one child buried, f27. Otherwise there is no evidence of discards.