Elemental oxides analysis of the medieval period glazed ware from Gogha, Gulf of Khambhat, Gujarat, India

Abstract

During an inter-tidal zone exploration in the Gulf of Khambhat region, a large number of glazed and nonglazed sherds were recovered along with stone anchors dating back to the late medieval period. Four representative specimens were analysed for elemental oxides using scanning electron microscope and energy dispersive spectrum. The results indicate that silicon oxide content of the glazed sherds varies between approx. 73 and 77%, forming three-fourths of the total composition, while it ranges from 42 to 47.5% in non-glazed sherds. Its content is more than half that in the ordinary sherds. It is difficult to understand the origin of these sherds on the basis of chemical analysis, as this study focuses only on the Gogha area. Therefore, similar studies from different regions in the Gulf of Khambhat will help to understand the origin and divergence in the manufacturing techniques used.