ISSN:
1572-9540
Keywords:
archaeometry
;
Mössbauer spectroscopy
;
X-ray diffraction
;
clays
;
early ceramics
;
authentic kiln
;
reducing firing
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Physics
Notes:
Abstract Material from field firing experiments using a 2,700-year old Formative kiln at Batán Grande, Peru, was studied by X-ray diffraction and Mössbauer spectroscopy. The experiments explore the technology involved in producing the gray and black reduced ware for which Cupisnique and other Formative ceramics are justly known. During firing, the iron-bearing compounds in clays undergo characteristic changes which depend on kiln temperature and atmosphere. These changes can be observed in the Mössbauer spectra. By comparing spectra of an appropriate clay fired in field experiments and in the laboratory with the spectra of ancient ceramics, a description of Formative firing techniques in a reducing environment is attempted.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1023/A:1012606025125
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