A microRaman and internal microstratigraphic study of ceramic sherds from the kilns of the Medici castle at Cafaggiolo

Abstract

Nine representative sherds from the old (14th–16th century) kilns at the Castle of Cafaggiolo in Tuscany have been analysed by means of internal microstratigraphic analyses and micro-Raman spectroscopy and classified as follows: six engobed and glazed fragments, of which three are covered with an opaque white, decorated layer, one is marbleized, and two are engobed. The surface of the two engobed sherds, fragments of unfinished products, indicates that at least two firing processes were used. Two samples show characteristics of Byzantine pottery, and three of them can be classified as Islamic ware or maiolica, whilst the other one displays intermediate characteristics. The variety of ceramic wares indicates the presence of craftsmen with differing expertise, and suggests that part of their work was dedicated to experimentation on new ceramic production techniques.