A PXRF, FTIR and SEM/EDS Analysis of the White Pigment on White Cross-Lined Ware

Author

Rachel Pinkman

Date

2024

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts

Department

Art History

Committee Chair

Joshua Roberson

Committee Member

Laurel D. Hackley

Committee Member

Ryan M. Parish

Abstract

The current study will examine the composition of the pigment used for decorating a type of Predynastic Egyptian ceramic vessels known as “white cross-lined ware” or “C-ware.” Two collections of white cross-lined ware have been analyzed by visual analysis, portable x-ray fluorescence (pXRF), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and scanning electron microscopy with an electron dispersive x-ray spectroscopy (SEM/EDS). The composition of this pigment may help scholars understand and recognize trade networks within and/or outside of Egypt, the types of materials Egyptian potters used and if different pigment recipes were employed for C-ware at different Predynastic sites. Furthermore, the identification of the materials used for the white pigment may allow scholars to document its use on other Egyptian objects in order to trace if the pigment was utilized continually into the Dynastic era and to document when this pigment started being used in Egypt.

Comments

Data is provided by the student.

Library Comment

Dissertation or thesis originally submitted to ProQuest.

Notes

Open Access

Recommended Citation

Pinkman, Rachel, "A PXRF, FTIR and SEM/EDS Analysis of the White Pigment on White Cross-Lined Ware" (2024). Electronic Theses and Dissertations. 3508.
https://digitalcommons.memphis.edu/etd/3508