Preliminary study of the microstructure and mineralogy of 12th and 13th century ceramics, Samsat, Southeastern Turkey

Abstract

AbstractThe mineralogy and microstructure of 12th and 13th century ceramics from Samsat, Turkey were examined with an X‐ray diffractometer and scanning electron microscope. There is a highly vitrified interlayer between the glaze and body in these sherds that probably accounts for the high durability of these ceramics. the lower vitrification and uniformity of the body in these ceramics suggests that leftover glaze was not mixed with paste during manufacture. Finally, the presence of tabular forsterite in the pores of the body points to the use of magnesium rich raw materials.