Given the existence of 17217 cutting the surface (17215 and 17219), it now seems less likely that 17214 resuilted from build up around a pre-existing deposit (17213). Both cuts, 17217 and 17214, cut into this surface (17219), though 17214 may be slightly higher. 17214 should be interpreted as a cut, but may still perform the same function as previously postulated: a buffer mortar surface to support some object or piece of furniture so that its weight didnt damage the beaten earth floor. The difference here is that it was dug into the floor surface, rather than built on top of it.

The cut is perhaps not a true 'cut' in the sense that it may have resulted from soil accumulation around the previously deposited 'fill' of 17213. 17213 may have been a mortar deposit that was constructed on top of a beaten earth floor to create a buffer between the floor and an object. If this is correct, then 17214 resulted from the buildup of sediments around this deposit.