Archaeometric characterization of ceramic and metallic findings

The characterization of archaeological findings is important in terms of understanding of the cultural levels and technology knowledge in the ancient times. In this study, the characterisation of the glazed ceramic sample groups and metallic artefacts which belong to 14th-15th centuries were performed. The technological parameters (i.e., raw materials used in body and slip layers, firing temperatures and atmosphere, microstructural features, and etc.) of pottery manufacture of the period were investigated. The microstructural and microchemical characterizations were carried out by scanning electron microscope attached with energy dispersive X-ray spectrometer (EDX), the X-ray flourescence (XRF), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and micro-Raman techniques (in Ss. Cyril and Methodius University). Finally, the production technology of that period was tried to be understood as a result of the all analysis performed. The estimated firing temperatures of the ceramic bodies were determined in between 600-950?C. The firing temperatures of the all glazes were determined as below 800?C. In the works of metallic wares copper, tin and lead were primarily used and some silver embroidery was applied as ornaments.