Non-destructive analysis and appraisal of ancient Chinese porcelain by PIXE

Abstract This paper reports the results of the PIXE analysis on ancient Chinese blue and white porcelain fired at Kuan Kiln (Jingdezhen, Jiangxi province) during 13–19th century. The major, minor and trace element of porcelain body, white glaze and blue glaze were determined by PIXE. In this paper the chemical compositions of porcelain body, white glaze and blue glaze measured from Yuan (AD 1206–1368), Ming (AD 1368–1644) and Qing (AD 1616–1911) blue and white porcelain are present. The cobalt blue pigment used in Yuan, Ming and Qing are also discussed.