The benefit of using chemical analysis in understanding archaeological glass. Case-study: Roman black glass

P. Cosyns; S. Cagno; K. Janssens; K. Nys

doi:10.1117/12.975682

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7 November 2012 The benefit of using chemical analysis in understanding archaeological glass. Case-study: Roman black glass

P. Cosyns, S. Cagno, K. Janssens, K. Nys

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Proceedings Volume 8422, Integrated Approaches to the Study of Historical Glass; 842203 (2012) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.975682
Event: Integrated Approaches to the Study of Historical Glass - IAS12, 2012, Brussels, Belgium

Abstract

LA-ICP-MS is a well acquainted technique for the quantification of a wide range of minor and trace elements present in the glass matrix. The benefit to understand the changes in technological processes or the added value in assessing the provenance and chronology of the raw glass material is however rarely discussed. By selecting a set of 197 Roman black glass artifacts dating between the 1st and 5th century AD we aimed to contribute to this issue. The obtained data on the production of glass artifacts helps better understand the constantly evolving patterns in glass consumption throughout the Roman imperial period. The key trace elements linked with the sand generally show the use of Levantine and Egyptian raw glass to produce black glass artifacts and result in well defined clusters. These indications are evidence for the use of different raw glasses in the Roman Empire and therefore featuring the work of diverse workshops over time. Specific trace elements such as copper, cobalt and lead reflect the application of recycling glass in Roman times.

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P. Cosyns, S. Cagno, K. Janssens, and K. Nys "The benefit of using chemical analysis in understanding archaeological glass. Case-study: Roman black glass", Proc. SPIE 8422, Integrated Approaches to the Study of Historical Glass, 842203 (7 November 2012); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.975682

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