TECHNOLOGICAL AND COMPOSITIONAL CHARACTERIZATION OF RED POLISHED WARE FROM THE BRONZE AGE KOURIS VALLEY (CYPRUS)

Abstract

In order to perform a physico-chemical multitechnique characterization, 26 fragments of Red Polished ware from the archaeological survey in the Kouris river valley (Limassol district, Cyprus) have been analyzed. Despite the gloss-like macroscopic aspect of the potsherd surfaces, Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) morphological observation revealed traces of mechanical polishing on the surfaces and the lack of a slip. Energy Dispersive X-ray (EDX) elemental analyses in both scan and map modes confirmed the absence of differentiation between body and surface composition. Chemometric evaluation on EDX bodies data showed a lack of sub-classification. Mineralogical patterns, obtained by X-Ray Powder Diffraction (XRPD) analysis revealed great variability among samples and the presence of amphiboles in 14 sherds, whose identification as horneblende and riebeckite was confirmed by petrographic examination. The unusual presence of these minerals in a ceramic ware fits with the Kouris valley geology, in agreement with traditional models of local raw materials exploitation for protohistoric societies. XRPD data, together with SEM images evaluation, pointed to firing temperatures ranging from 800 to 1050°C, suggesting the use of kilns instead of open fires or pits; on the other hand the colour heterogeneity testified to limited control of the kiln atmosphere.