A STUDY OF ANCIENT CHINESE PORCELAIN WARES OF THE SONG-YUAN DYNASTIES FROM CIZHOU AND DING KILNS WITH ENERGY DISPERSIVE X-RAY FLUORESCENCE*

Multi-variable statistical analysis based on energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence measurements on both porcelain body and glaze is employed to give clear and consistent classification of porcelain sherds from northern China of different styles from the Song-Yuan dynasties (Ding and Cizhou styles), and also from the Sui-Tang dynasties (Xing style). However, the observed separation is less clear for Cizhou style sherds produced at neighbouring kiln sites. Imitation Ding porcelain samples produced by ancient Cizhou potters are also analysed.