Figure 2.7Kerameikos ostrakon inv. 2242, DAI.Here we see a double list with names and numerals in the Attic form,
and some extra entries squashed in, on the inner side of a base of a wide
plate. It dates to around the mid-fourth century. The text is unique:
‘‘there is no close or even vague parallel in any medium’’ as the editor
Alan Johnston says (1985, 296), though individual elements occur else-
where. Each column consists of lists of names, mostly abbreviated, then a
neat colon [:], then a number, another colon, then another number,
usually half of the first (for example, 28:14). The names mostly look
like slaves’ names and the likely scenario suggested by Johnston is that
this is a list of slaves, days worked, and the payment for the use of these
slaves; or alternatively, the payment made by the slaves to their master
from their income, which seems (on this interpretation) to be half an obol
per day.^37 A month is given, and archon, which suggests that the list refers
to activities in this month.
- Johnston 1985, 305 6.
Writing, Reading, Public and Private ‘‘Literacies’’ 29