Microbeam X-ray fluorescence and X-ray absorption spectroscopic analysis of Chinese blue-and-white kraak porcelain dating from the Ming dynasty

Microbeam X-ray fluorescence (XRF) spectroscopy is applied, next to an art-historical analysis, to determine the time and place of origin of Chinese blue-and-white porcelain. In the performed experiments, two groups of kraak porcelain samples (A and B) have been analyzed with XRF spectroscopy to obtain quantitative data, (trace) elemental distributions and fingerprints within different regions of interest. The outcome was processed with Principal Component Analysis (PCA), and with the obtained results it was possible to conclude that the two groups show similar elemental fingerprints and were manufactured in the same time period with a comparable use of raw materials. Additionally, X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) measurements have been performed on the pigment layer, confirming the use of Cobalt Blue as an underglaze pigment.