Mesopotamian Incense Burners from the Third and Second Millennia BC. An Archaeological Approach

The use of aromatic substances was widespread throughout the entire ancient Near East. Written sources leave no doubt in regard to the importance of fumigation rituals, both in the sacral and private spheres. It would seem that the pleasant aroma emitted through burning fragrant materials was an indispensable element of almost every cultic ceremony. Although the texts enumerate a variety of aromatic substances, proving the popularity of the practice, the archaeological finds of the 3rd and the 2nd millennia BC are surprisingly scarce and seem to contradict the picture emerging from the texts.