학술논문

Exploring pottery origin by composition and technique comparison: a case study at the Daqu burial site, Beijing, China
Document Type
article
Source
Heritage Science, Vol 12, Iss 1, Pp 1-10 (2024)
Subject
Han Dynasty pottery
Polychrome pottery towers
Mineralogical and geochemical analysis
Ancient Beijing archaeology
Fine Arts
Analytical chemistry
QD71-142
Language
English
ISSN
2050-7445
Abstract
Abstract Scientific analysis of excavated pottery reveals critical archaeological insights, yet data on Han Dynasty pottery remains limited. This study focuses on pottery artifacts excavated from the Daqu burial site in Beijing, renowned for their polychrome decorations and size. Utilizing optical microscopy (OM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), and X-ray Fluorescence (XRF), this study examined five substrate samples sourced from fragments of pottery towers and ellipse-shaped dishes. All samples exhibited similar inclusions and the same firing atmosphere. The mineralogical analysis indicated that quartz and feldspar are predominant components, with minor constituents like chlorite and kaolinite observed in the coarse pottery of the ellipse-shaped dish. Minor mineral variations suggest differences in firing temperatures. The resemblance between low-value pottery cups and delicate polychrome towers suggests they were crafted locally. These findings advance our understanding of ceramic materials and techniques in late Eastern Han Dynasty Beijing, providing crucial insights for future studies on ancient Chinese economy and society.