Description
This research aims to develop a methodology for determining the origin and historical context of ceramic art objects from the Museum of Royal Wawel Castle's collection. The doctoral dissertation focuses on using X-ray fluorescence (XRF) spectroscopy to analyze the elemental composition of these ceramics. By examining the elemental data, the research seeks to uncover the provenance and production techniques of the artifacts. Five ceramic samples from Wawel Castle were analyzed using X-ray fluorescence (XRF), revealing detailed information about the concentration of various elements and compounds. The measurements were performed on M4 TORNADO Plus, BRUKER spectrometer. The concentrations of the following elements: Na, Mg, Al, Si, P, S, K, Ca, Ti, V, Cr, Mn, Fe, Ni, Cu, Zn, Ga, Ge, As, Br, Rb, Sr, Y, Zr, Ba and Pb were determined. The correlations between concentrations were calculated. Graphical Plot between K₂O/SiO₂ versus Al₂O₃/SiO₂ and ternary plots for (Na₂O+Al₂O₃), SiO₂, Al₂O₃ and CaO , SiO₂, Al₂O₃ were performed, respectively. These findings provide insights into the materials' origins and manufacturing processes. Conducted in collaboration with the Wawel Royal Castle Museum, this study combines art history, archaeology, and materials science to enhance our understanding of the ceramics' historical and cultural significance. Plans include applying for a research grant to expand this study and develop a standardized methodology for future research. This project aims to deepen scientific knowledge of ceramic artifacts and inform curatorial and conservation practices.
Acknowledgements: This study was supported by the program “Excellence initiative—research university” for the University of Krakow together with the subsidy of the Ministry of Science and Higher Education, grant number 16.16.220.842
