Tang pottery is one of the most remarkable examples of the ancient Chinese cultural heritage. It flourished during the cosmopolitan Tang dynasty (618-907), a period characterized by unprecedented production levels and extensive trade along the Silk Roads. Despite its widespread distribution, Tang pottery was produced in a limited number of Chinese kilns[1]. During the 20th century, Tang figurines became highly sought by art collectors, leading to a proliferation of modern reproductions on the art market. However, they have not been systematically studied, highlighting the need for reliable physico-chemical authentication markers.
In this context, the present study examines 40 Tang-style figurines from major Chinese collections in Italy, including both genuine finds and declared modern reproductions. The main aim is to identify markers of authenticity through an in-depth investigation of their materials and manufacturing process. Micro-ceramic fragments from the inner cavities of each figurine were analyzed and classified based on colourimetry, elemental compositions, paste morphology, characteristics of inclusions, mineralogical assemblages, and estimated maximum firing temperature. The technological features of these artefacts were compared with those of archaeological Tang pottery reported in the literature, providing first insights into similarities and differences in raw materials and manufacturing techniques[1-6].
The results of this pilot study lay the first framework for further investigations of Tang-style artefacts found outside the archaeological context and with uncertain authenticity.
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