TRENDS OF INNOVATION IN THE LEVANTINE STORAGE JARS AND PITHOI(13TH-11THCENTURIES BC)

Understanding the global trade network in the printing industry is crucial for promoting sustainable development and cultural exchange and knowledge dissemination. However, the extant literature does not reveal the contours of the global cultural printed material trade network. This paper uses a social network analysis and QAP analysis to explore the global printing industry trade network pattern. The aim of this paper is to discern the core and emerging nodes and explore the evolutional characteristics on the network spatial linkage and country role. The results show the following: ① The printing industry’s global trade network is growing increasingly intricate, with trade links between nations (regions) becoming closer, the network’s connectivity steadily improving, and the hierarchical structure becoming more apparent. ② Germany, France, and Belgium are important intermediary bridges. The “circle of friends” in the trade of cultural products has a growing effect, and China can more easily establish close ties with Southeast Asia, Northern Europe, and Central and Eastern Europe. ③ The industrial chain and geographical proximity are the primary factors in the formation of the trade network. Economic proximity and political proximity significantly and positively contribute to the formation of the trade network, while institutional stability gradually plays a weaker role. As for cultural proximity, a common language and colonial relationship will positively contribute to the formation of a network, while immigrants have no obvious impact. Digital technology is becoming an “emerging force”. Additionally, this paper extends sustainable policies and recommendations for the global cultural trade.

The provenance and circulation of archaeological ceramics are key to understanding ancient societies' trade networks and cultural exchanges. However, comparing coarse and fine wares using bulk compositional analysis remains challenging due to the variable chemical contribution of temper (e.g., sand), which masks the signature of the raw clay. This study introduces a novel quantitative μ-LIBS (micro-Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy) imaging methodology to isolate and analyse the clay fraction composition of archaeological ceramics, enabling direct geochemical comparisons between tempered coarse wares and fine wares for provenance studies. By combining multi-elemental mapping (Ca, Fe, Ti, K, Si, Al, Mg, Mn, Na, P, Zr, Rb, Sr, Ba) with calibration based on bulk X-ray fluorescence spectrometry, the method provides accurate microscale quantification. Elemental maps are segmented to extract the clay fraction composition, overcoming the limitations of traditional bulk analysis. The protocol was validated using fired briquettes with controlled sand contents and firing temperatures, confirming its accuracy and robustness. Applied to four coarse ware specimens (mainly amphorae) from Lugdunum (Roman Lyon (France) during the Augustan-period, the reconstructed clay compositions were compared to a reference database of 235 contemporaneous ceramics, including coarse wares and three Lugdunum Terra sigillata production groups. Results reveal a shared raw clay source between calcareous amphorae and La Muette B sigillata, supporting earlier hypotheses, while other sigillata wares remain compositionally distinct. This approach significantly advances ceramic provenance studies, particularly for complex assemblages, by enabling direct comparisons between ware types previously hindered by temper variability, together with the common total bulk elemental composition measurements.

The cultural histories of South Asian and Southeast Asian countries are considered to be closely correlated with cultural exchanges and trading networks (Nandana Chutiwongs 1996: 3). Long before the opening of the so called “silk route” and the construction of Buddhist and Hindu temples, which were the result of cultural absorption from Chinese and Indian civilizations, the primitive people already had contacts with each other. Having studied the Bronze Age on mainland Southeast Asia (1500–1000 bce), Charles Higham believes that long-distance exchanges were mainly along the river systems, including goods such as metal ingots, gemstones, shell, carnelian, fine pottery and (now surely perished) organic materials. These goods were used to express social status and make offerings to the dead (Higham 2004: 57). He also notices that from about 500 bce, following the invading route of the Qin and Han China, several societies in mainland Southeast Asia developed with direct influences from Chinese culture. Other areas, further to the south and in the islands, were only indirectly influenced by the expansion of the Han. The long coast and various river systems from the lower delta of the Mekong River to the Chao Phraya created the best conditions for the development of interregional and international exchanges and trading. The demand for luxury goods and local products from the Chinese and Roman empires speeded up the formation of trading mechanisms and societies in South and Southeast Asia (ibid.: 59; Borrel et al. 2014: 110–111). The seafarers, traders and migrants who gradually settled in the islands and on the mainland of Southeast Asia fostered the process of cultural interaction and exchanges. Knowledge about the monsoon created great chances firstly for the Indians and the Arabs and then the Romans to expand their trade and cultural exchanges with Asians, the Southeast Asian people in particularly (Moorhead 1957: 10–11).

Pig domestication and management strategy has been increasingly discussed in recent years, focusing on the temporal-spatial differences of pig management strategies. The East Liao River Basin with diverse ecosystems, cultural exchanges, and collisions plays an important role in the cultural development, exchange, and integration processes between Northeast China and the Central Plains. Multiple studies have revealed that various forms of subsistence economy, such as nomadism, fishing and hunting, and farming, existed in this region. However, no report or discussion has been presented concerning the status of domestic animal management strategies over a long-term in the East Liao River Basin. Carbon and nitrogen stable isotopes analysis were performed on the fauna bones at the Changshan site in Siping, Jilin, China, from the Bronze Age (c. 2000–256 BC) to the Liaojin Dynasties (907–1234 AD), to reconstruct their dietary pattern and reveal the status of domestic animal management strategies, especially the diachronic changes in pig feeding strategies. The results showed that pigs (–19.3 ± 1.6%, 5.3 ± 0.9%, n = 27), horses (–18.4 ± 1.7%, 4.8 ± 1.4%, n = 7), and sheep (–19.8 ± 1.5%, 5.7 ± 0.5%, n = 6) primarily received their subsistence through C3-based food. Nevertheless, cattle (–16.4 ± 3.5%, 6.0 ± 2.1%, n = 2) and the past human (–13.9%, 10.3%, n = 1) lived on mixed C3/C4-based food. Notably, the stable isotope data for pigs from the Bronze Age (–19.1 ± 2.0%, 5.4 ± 1.0%, n = 9) to the Liaojin Dynasties (–19.8 ± 0.6%, 5.1 ± 0.7%, n = 15) were similar, indicating that the management and/or feeding strategy of domestic pigs were relatively stable with a free range in a wild ecosystem over a long period. Related studies have shown that pigs in captivity were mainly fed by millet-based food in the West Liao River Basin and the middle reaches of the Yellow River valley, where millet agriculture were adequately developed. Abundant natural resources, including plants, wild animals, and fishes, could provide sufficient food to the past population in the East Liao River Basin. Thus, the millet-based agriculture was just an auxiliary subsistence strategy in the Changshan site, leading to a gap in the driving force for long-term intensive management of pig.

This research examines the transformative impact of globalization on business strategies, emphasizing the role of technological advancements in dismantling barriers and driving competition. Globalization has reshaped economies and societies through a network of trade, investment, and cultural exchange, yielding both benefits and challenges. Positive outcomes include expanded markets, economic growth, and poverty reduction in countries, while adverse effects include income inequality, environmental degradation, and cultural homogenization. The study underscores the importance of innovation, localization, and sustainability as key success factors in navigating globalization. Multinational corporations employ innovative strategies, adopt market-specific business models, and integrate sustainability to remain competitive. Case studies highlight the need for strategic adaptability and balancing global integration with local responsiveness. Capital, government expenditure, and labor emerge as critical drivers of economic growth, with globalization linked to economic progress. The research emphasizes supporting small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to overcome globalization challenges and thrive globally.

This article explores the establishment of economic unity in the Eastern Mediterranean during the Palaiologan Period, focusing particularly on the role of wine trade. It investigates how various regions were interconnected through sea routes and trading networks, contributing to a cohesive economic system. The study emphasizes the significance of wine production as a cash crop, involving landlords, peasants, and merchants. Wine, produced in different grades, played a pivotal role in daily consumption as well as in religious and social ceremonies, catering to diverse societal strata. Additionally, this study demonstrates the economic intricacies of Cretan Malmsey trade, revealing its paramount importance as a sought-after commodity across the Mediterranean. By analyzing historical sources and scholarly research, this study sheds light on the complex dynamics of wine commerce, highlighting its role in facilitating cross-regional trade and cultural exchange. The findings suggest that despite political fragmentation, the Eastern Mediterranean formed an integrated economic entity during the Palaiologan Period, facilitated by extensive trading networks and the prominence of wine trade. Through its comprehensive analysis, this research contributes to a nuanced understanding of the economic landscape of the era and its enduring impact on Mediterranean history.

Spice commodities are very important commodities in trade in the past, spice trading routes built by the people of the archipelago and traders from India and China, caused many local ports to emerge which developed rapidly into ports that were visited by many merchant ships from various regions, past ports such as Maluku, Banda, Makassar, and Malacca. In the context of global trade, a trade network was formed that connected the western world as consumers and the eastern world as producers of commodities. The regions in the archipelago are known as centers of spice production that are very diverse, almost every region of the archipelago has typical spices that are traded. This study aims to look at the history of the spice route in the archipelago and its benefits as a form of diplomacy in ancient times, which can make the economy in various regions of the archipelago develop well, the spread of religion and cultural exchange can occur due to diplomacy through the spice route. With this aim, this study uses a library research method related to archaeological data and historical source searches. The results of this study obtained information that the most sought-after spices in the past were cloves, nutmeg, and mace, which could be found in the Maluku and Banda regions. From the existence of these three spices, a spice route was created starting from Maluku to the port of Malacca, which at that time was the largest gathering point for Chinese, Indian, and European traders.

The purpose of this study is to compile the academic research that has been conducted on the Nok excavations over the course of this year in order to present a comprehensive archaeological narrative about Nigerian civilization. Despite the fact that the centre of the Nok culture can be found in the middle of Nigeria, it is possible that the influence of Nok artefacts and cultural practices has spread beyond this region. There is a good chance that migration patterns, cultural exchanges, and trade networks were all factors that contributed to the widespread dissemination of Nok cultural elements to neighbouring regions. Research and mapping projects that are currently underway have the objective of documenting and analysing the distribution of Nok sites throughout central Nigeria and across the country. For the purpose of visualising the geographical footprint of the Nok Culture and gaining an understanding of the settlement patterns of this ancient civilization, geographic information systems (GIS) and spatial analysis techniques are utilised.

The unique geographical and cultural significance of Borneo, the third largest island in the world, located in the Malay Archipelago and shared by Indonesia, Malaysia, and Brunei, is highlighted. This geographic linkage facilitates multifaceted interactions and fosters cultural exchange and deeper understanding among different ethnic groups and indigenous communities. Borneo's historical connections have resulted in the sharing of cultural practices, music, cuisine, etc. Festivals and cultural events held across borders strengthen the unity between Malaysians, Indonesians, and Bruneians. A vibrant art scene and religious diversity contribute to interfaith dialogue and mutual respect. Linguistic diversity provides avenues for cross-cultural communication. Borneo's historical background in trade networks, imperial expansion, and colonialism underlines its importance in fostering cultural exchange. Today’s Borneo is a hotbed of biodiversity and home to vital rainforests. The common historical, environmental, and cultural threads of the island weave a picture of continuity, cooperation, understanding, and stable relations. The Borneo Youth Leadership Camp, organized by the Borneo Studies Network, is an example of the island's role in empowering the youth across borders and fostering leadership skills, cultural appreciation, and environmental responsibility. The camp's interdisciplinary approach integrates Science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), and the arts and imparts critical thinking, compassion, and adaptability. As participants embark on this transformative journey, they emerge as empowered global citizens ready to contribute positively to their communities and the world. This camp repeats the call for unity, progress, and a common commitment to a better future. Overall, Borneo acts as a small space of unity, demonstrating the power of shared heritage, cultural exchange, and youth leadership in fostering cooperation, understanding, and sustainable relations between neighboring countries.

The Delhi Sultanate marked a transformative period in India’s urban history, characterized by the expansion of cities, the establishment of new urban centers, and the revival of older settlements. With the rise of successive dynasties Mamluks, Khaljis, Tughlaqs, Sayyids, and Lodis—the subcontinent witnessed rapid urbanization driven by administrative needs, military strategies, economic growth, and cultural exchange. The influx of Persian, Central Asian, and Arab influences played a significant role in shaping the architecture, trade networks, and social fabric of these cities. Delhi, the capital of the Sultanate, emerged as a vibrant metropolis, reflecting the grandeur of Islamic urban planning and governance. Other cities such as Lahore, Jaunpur, Daulatabad, and Lakhnauti flourished as regional power centers. These cities were strategically developed with fortifications, mosques, madrasas, caravanserais, and bustling markets that facilitated trade and commerce. Economic activities played a crucial role in urban expansion, with the introduction of a monetized economy, market regulations, and improved trade routes connecting India with the Middle East, Central Asia, and Southeast Asia. The Sultanate encouraged the growth of specialized artisan communities, guilds, and commercial establishments, fostering a vibrant economic environment. The urbanization under the Delhi Sultanate also had a profound socio-political impact. The cities became centers of political authority, military organization, and religious patronage. The architectural legacy of the period, including iconic structures like the Qutub Minar, Alai Darwaza, Hauz Khas Complex, and Tughlaqabad Fort, continues to define India's historical landscape. Despite the prosperity of these urban centers, challenges such as frequent Mongol invasions, shifting capitals, and agrarian dependencies influenced the stability of urban life. Nevertheless, the urbanization initiated during the Sultanate period laid the foundation for the flourishing cities of the Mughal era and beyond, leaving a lasting imprint on India’s historical and cultural development.

Research into global flows in people, products and images has generated a range of valuable insights in relation to, for example, global cities, diaspora, perceptions of global risk, trade networks, media institutions, cultural exchange and so on. There has been particular interest in the emergence of new forms of social solidarity, which are often labelled under the broad heading of cosmopolitanism (Beck, 2004). However, much of this work has tended to focus on the most mobile or vulnerable, overlooking the large numbers who remain relatively rooted but engage with the ‘other’ in more limited or restricted ways, primarily through consumption practices, media connectivity and, in some cases, travel. It is my contention that by engaging with such groups we can offer a complementary perspective and, in particular, critically scrutinise some of the more extravagant claims about cosmopolitanism.

In the marketplace of religions, the goddess Nanaya was a popular commodity among worshippers of various polytheistic traditions. Her cult was adopted and adapted by the Sumerians, Akkadians, Elamites, Arameans, Hellenistic Greeks, Egyptians, Syrians, and the many Iranian groups. The author attempts to answer the question: What caused the goddess Nanaya to be bought? The inquiry focuses on her sacred symbols as one medium for conveying religious beliefs, since icons and images have always played an important role in the process of densification and diffusion of those beliefs. The basic axiom is that religious symbol systems are shaped gradually in cultural exchange and encounters by various forms of adaptation and transformation. The trade network to be surveyed constitutes the western part of the ancient trading network of Central Asia and of greater Central Eurasia, the so-called Silk Road. Keywords: Central Asia; Central Eurasia; goddess Nanaya; Hellenistic Greeks; polytheistic traditions; sacred symbols

The aim of retracing routes and identifying nodes is to understand how trade networks shaped patterns of Buddhist transmission and how Buddhist ideologies provided an impetus to cross-cultural mobility and material exchanges. The designations applied to routes used by merchants and religious travelers refer not only to their itineraries, but also to geographical regions with flexible boundaries and polyvalent socio-religious connotations. The Uttarapatha (literally the Northern Route) was the main artery of commercial and cultural exchange between the northwestern borderlands of South Asia and the Ganga-Yamuna doab in northern India. The Daks?in?apatha (literally Southern Route) connecting the Ganges- Yamuna valley with the west coast via the Deccan plateau was the southern Indian counterpart to the Uttarapatha. By linking South Asian overland networks with maritime routes across the Indian Ocean, coastal seaports offered outlets for commodities from the Indian subcontinent and opened up possibilities for longdistance cross-cultural contact. Keywords:coastal seaports; Daksināpatha; Indian Ocean; maritime routes; South Asia; trade networks; Uttarāpatha

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to analyze the development of the Islamic economy during the Ottoman Empire. Design/methodology/approach: The research method used in this research is library research. The data used is secondary data obtained from relevant sources, books, journals and so on. Findings: Ottoman Türkiye paid more attention to progress in the political and military fields. In this way, economic and financial conditions contributed to the development of Islam in the Ottoman Empire. Islamic economics during the Ottoman Empire reflected the integration of Islamic economic principles with practical economic practices and effective administration. So, according to researchers of the Ottoman Empire, it is very interesting to study in order to find out how the concept and development of Islamic economics was during the Ottoman Empire. Research implications: The implications of the development of the Islamic economy during the Ottoman Empire include:Expansion of Trade Networks: The Ottoman Empire's strategic location bridged East and West, facilitating extensive trade networks that promoted economic growth and cultural exchange.

CPEC is expected to improve bilateral relations, logistics, infrastructure and connectivity among people of the whole region. Major objective of this paper to explore how CPEC will transform the regions of Central Asia and Southern Asia by doing systematic literature review of available literature in the form of books, journals and research reports etc. Study finds that CPEC will remove trade barriers, improve regional infrastructure and telecommunication networks across the region resulting in financial stability, cultural exchange and government level relationship. However, there are certain reservations of political parties and people about route and benefits of CPEC. Moreover, Iran and India considers it an unacceptable project because India is investing in Iranian port of Chahbahar and emergence of Gwadar as a new trade network will threaten its strategic importance. Study recommends that there is a need to address all the concerns to avoid any hindrance in completion of CPEC.