Archaeological excavations in Khuzestan province (Iran) led to the discovery of three earthenware ovens with clays designed with exaggerated pictures of animals called 'Mosabak' in 7000-year-old architectural remains of Tal-e Abouchizan in Shushtar. This is the first time such clay relics have been discovered in Khuzestan sites.
     "Existence of four earthenware ovens in architectural remains indicate that this structure was not a settlement area and mot probably it is the remains of a pottery workshop. Some clays with very beautiful designs were also discovered near this workshop," said Mehdi Moghadam, head of archaeological team in Tal-e Abouchizan in Shushtar. According to Moghadam, such decorated clays were only discovered in Backoon historical site in Fars province which was one of the most important centers in forming political governments.
     The first season of excavations has started in Tal-e Abouchizan to find out the role of this 7000-year-old historical area in the establishment of the first governments in Susa. Tal-e Abouzhizan is one of the marginal sites of Susa which contains some historical evidence from the Elamite to the Islamic period. Tal-e Abouchizan has a strategic position. From east it leads to Ramhormoz, Behbahan, and Fars, from west it leads to Sustar and Susa, and from the south it leads to Ahvaz and the Persian Gulf.

Source: Payvand (13 March 2006)