Archaeometric characterisation of late Byzantine-early Ottoman ceramics

The characterisation 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 and unglazed ceramic sample groups, which belonged to 14th-15th centuries, excavated from Ayasuluk İsa Bey Hamam in İzmir/Ephesus was performed. The microstructural and microchemical characterisations were carried out by Scanning Electron Microscope attached with Energy Dispersive X-Ray Spectrometer (EDX), the X-Ray Flourescence (XRF), X-Ray Diffraction (XRD) and micro-Raman techniques (in Ss. Cyril and Methodius University) were performed for the chemical and mineralogical analysis, respectively. Furthermore, Scanning Transmission Electron Microscope attached with EDX spectrometer (STEM-EDX) and XRD technique was performed for the characterisation of the crystals in the interface between the body and glaze. Finally, the production technology of that period was tried to be understood in consequence of the all analysis performed. In consequence of the chemical analyses, ceramic bodies were classified into two groups with respect to raw materials; calceraous and non- calcerous raw materials. The estimated firing temperature of the bodies were determined in between 600-1050 ?C. The firing temperatures of the all glazes were determined as below 700?C. Two types of crystals in the interaction area of the glaze and body were defined as ?lead- feldspar? and ?copper ferrrite? crystals.