Technological characterization and maritime trade implications of Sui Tang dynasty Deqing Kiln ceramics
Source abstract
Abstract
Abstract During the Sui and Tang Dynasties, Deqing Kiln in the Taihu Lake region produced black- and celadon-glazed ceramics widely distributed across East Asia. This study investigates how maritime trade influenced production strategies at the kiln site. Using XRF, SEM, and PCA, we analyzed ceramics from Deqing and the contemporaneous Xuanzhou Kiln. Results reveal refined raw material selection, improved firing control, and increased standardization during the Sui and Tang Dynasty. Rather than a decline in quality, changes in product characteristics reflect a strategic shift toward efficient, scalable production for trade. This study underscores Deqing Kiln’s technological adaptability and managerial sophistication during a key period of early Chinese ceramic globalization.
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Research context
OpenAlex topics: Maritime and Coastal Archaeology · Global Maritime and Colonial Histories · Archaeology and ancient environmental studies
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