Multi-analytical techniques for characterization of ancient Egyptian pottery objects from Cairo University excavations at Saqqara

Abstract

Archaeological pottery shows various forms of deterioration and degradation. This research aims to determine the chemical composition and diagnose the damage manifestations of three pottery vessels from the archaeological site of Saqqara. The AutoCAD, digital microscope, X-ray diffraction, polarized microscope, portable X-ray fluorescence, and scanning electron microscopy are utilized to understand the preservation status of pottery vessels. According to the investigation’s findings, the chosen vessels had cracks, accumulated dirt, missing parts, peeling of the slip layer, and black deposits. The X-ray diffraction analysis showed that Albite, Anorthite, Wollastonite, Quartz, Calcite, and Hematite are the primary constituents of the vessels. However, the polarized microscope showed the plagioclase feldspar, indicating that the Nile clay is the source of the raw clay and that the temperature rose above 800 °C. Portable X-ray fluorescence and scanning electron microscopy revealed different concentrations of Si, Fe, and Ca, which are the main pottery components. In addition to the presence of high concentrations of chloride salts. There is no doubt that this will help to preserve the archaeological pottery in future studies.