Sa Huynh and Cham potteries: microstructure and likely processing

Abstract

Various techniques such as Raman spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, and thermal expansion measurement have been applied to Sa Huynh (10th century BC–2nd century AD) and Cham (2–15th centuries AD) pottery findings from the excavations at Quang Ngai province (Central Viet Nam). The experimental results highlight the microstructure and technological processing of these potteries. Sa Huynh potteries technology is based on iron-rich clay-based body and feldspar fluxing agents. The firing is made in more or less strong reducing conditions. The Cham potteries were made from high-temperature fired silica-rich bodies covered with thin colourless to black–brown glazes.