ELEMENTAL ANALYSIS OF CERAMIC ARTEFACTS FROM TANJUNG SIMPANG MENGAYAU SHIPWRECK IN SABAH

Abstract

This article discusses the scientific analysis of ceramic artefacts recovered from a shipwreck at Tanjung Simpang Mengayau in Kudat, Sabah. The main objective is to determine the chemical composition of these artefacts to identify the materials and technology used in the production of the ceramics. Understanding the ceramic materials and technology will assist archaeologists and conservators to find the best methods for long-term and sustainable preservation of the ceramics heritage in Sabah. In total, 16 ceramic jar and celadon bowl sherds recovered from the Tanjung Simpang Mengayau shipwreck were analysed using X-ray diffraction (XRD) and X-Ray fluorescence (XRF). The results revealed the presence of quartz and mullite minerals in the jars while quartz, mullite and cristobalite minerals were found in the celadon bowls, suggesting that both the jars and celadon bowls were made of kaolinite clay with added sand and limestone, but fired at different temperatures of 1,345°C and 1,470°C, respectively. Data gathered from this study is important not only for finding out and comparing the ceramic materials and production methods, but also to identify the possible origins of the Tanjung Simpang Mengayau ceramics.