ZHANG Zhigang¹, GUO Yanyi¹, CHENYaocheng¹ ,ZHANG Pushen² ,ZHU Jie²

(1.Shanghai Institute of Ceramics , Academia Sinica;

2.Yang Zhou Museum Cadres Training Centre of Relie Bureau, Culture Ministry)

Abstract: In this article, three typical samples are picked out from the Blue-and-White sherds unearthed recently in Yangzhou, The chemical compositions of their bodies, glazes and pigments are analyzed and their physica1 and ceramic properties are determined. The structure of the sesamples are examined by means of OM and X-ray electron probe.From the results of the comprehensive study, it was found out as follows: 1.The decoration patterns, strata of excavations and the circumstantial evidence of other finds show that the date of the Blue-and-White porcelains in excavation should be the middle and late Tang Dynasty. 2. These Blue-and-White porcelains were painted with under- glaze colour pigments which contained less manganess and cobalt ore,and were very similar to the blue pigment used for Tang Sancai porcelain of Gong Xian kiln of Tang Dynasty. 3. The Blue-and-White bodies and glazes are very simlar to the white porcelains of Tang Dynasty produced in Gong Xian kiln in the appearance, chemical composition and firing tempe rature, from which it may be inferred that the Blue-and-White porcelains are undoubtedly Gong Xian kiln products of Tang Dynasty.

Key words:  Ancient porcelain, Blue-and-White porcelain ,Underglaze colour