Application of EDXRF and thermal expansion analysis for the study of the origin of celadon from the Song and Jin Dynasties (960-1279CE) at the Shuyuan Street site, China

Yajie Zhang ¹, Weijuan Zhao ^1,2, Haizhou Zhao ²

⁰School of Physics, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China. zwj@zzu.edu.cn.

Analytical Methods : Advancing Methods and Applications +

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May 13, 2025

View abstract on PubMed

Summary

This study analyzed celadon from Zhengzhou, China, revealing trade between Zhengzhou and Shaanxi during the Northern Song Dynasty. Later, celadon trade in Zhengzhou primarily involved local kilns.

Area Of Science

Archaeological Science
Materials Science
Ceramic Studies

Background

Celadon production and trade significantly impacted East Asian economies and cultural exchange during the Song and Jin Dynasties.
Understanding the provenance and distribution of celadon provides insights into historical trade networks and technological diffusion.
The Shuyuan Street site in Zhengzhou offers a crucial location for examining ceramic trade dynamics in Henan Province.

Purpose Of The Study

To determine the origin and trade patterns of celadon artifacts unearthed at the Shuyuan Street site in Zhengzhou.
To chemically characterize celadon samples and ascertain their firing temperatures to identify kiln provenance.
To reconstruct regional celadon trade relationships during the Northern Song, Jin, and Southern Song Dynasties.

Main Methods

Analysis of 39 celadon samples from stratigraphic layers using Energy Dispersive X-ray Fluorescence (EDXRF) spectroscopy for chemical composition.
Measurement of firing temperatures using a thermal dilatometer (TD).
Comparative analysis of chemical composition and firing temperatures with known kiln data (Yaozhou and Donggou kilns).

Main Results

Two distinct celadon types were identified: one from Yaozhou kiln (Shaanxi) with high-calcium glaze and high firing temperatures (1281–1330 °C) during the Northern Song Dynasty.
A second type, likely from Donggou kiln (Henan), exhibited calcium and calcium-alkali glazes and lower firing temperatures (1200–1222 °C) during the Jin Dynasty.
Evidence suggests celadon trade between Zhengzhou and Shaanxi during the Northern Song, shifting to local Zhengzhou kilns by the Southern Song/Jin periods.

Conclusions

Celadon trade networks in Zhengzhou evolved, initially involving long-distance exchange with Shaanxi and later concentrating on regional production.
The study confirms the distinct characteristics of celadon from Yaozhou and Donggou kilns and their presence in Zhengzhou.
The findings highlight the importance of chemical and thermal analysis in tracing ceramic provenance and understanding historical trade routes.