On Aegean spices: decipherment prospects on Linear A and B spice-related signs

New interpretations of undeciphered spice-related signs in Linear A and B scripts reveal that Mycenaean palatial administrators prioritized precise, unambiguous logogram rendering for commodity tracking. This suggests the Linear B script, while not suited to Greek linguistic complexity, effectively facilitated clear record-keeping of trade goods like perfumed oils—particularly prominent at Pylos. The study cross-references Linear A and B signs, offering potential breakthroughs in deciphering previously obscure ingredients. These findings underscore the palaces' sophisticated administrative practices during the Late Bronze Age.

Ferrara, S., Salgarella, E., & Bellinato, L. (2025). On Aegean spices: decipherment prospects on Linear A and B spice-related signs. Kadmos, 64(1-2), 29–44. https://doi.org/10.1515/kadmos-2025-0002