EDXRF studies on Chinese Yue ware

Abstract The major and trace element composition of Chinese Yue ware, widely recognized as the earliest Chinese porcelain (probably the earliest worldwide), is analysed using non-destructive, energy-dispersive x-ray fluorescence (EDXRF). The results are subject to multivariate statistical analysis. Different compositional patterns were found for specimens from different production sites (Cixi, Ningbo, Shaoxin, Shangyu City, Zhejiang province). In particular the specimens excavated at Hangzhou palace, called Mise (mysterious colour) ware, can be identified by a small number of key element concentrations. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.