In this study, 32 samples of clay figurines have been investigated using optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, X-ray powder diffractometry, X-ray fluorescence and neutron activation analysis, in order to identify the nature and source of the raw materials, and also to provide estimates of the firing temperatures. Thermoluminescence analysis was carried out to identify the minimum firing temperature and some reconstruction experiments in an open fire were conducted to check the practical conditions of firing. Estimates of CO2 content were made using coulometry.
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Last updated: Tue Oct 24 2000