Medieval Glazed Ceramics from Northern Banglades

Evidence for Local Production and Firing Technologies

Abstract

This study investigates medieval glazed “Index Pottery” from Dinajpur, Bangladesh, to understand local production techniques and technological variation. Five samples from four sites were analyzed using XRD and SEM EDS. Results show quartz (41.1%–71.4%) and muscovite (18.3%–47.3%) as dominant minerals, with minor zoisite, apatite, and occasional nepheline. Elemental data indicate high oxygen and silicon, with variable aluminum and sodium. Sodium based fluxes suggest lower firing temperatures (~950–1,100 °C), while sodium free glazes required higher temperatures (~1,100–1,250 °C). Muscovite likely improved thermal resistance, while zoisite and apatite influenced glaze stability and color. Overall, the find ings reveal diverse glaze formulations and firing strategies, reflecting skilled and adaptive local craftsmanship.