INSIGHTS ON CHARACTERIZATION AND CONSERVATION OF THE GLAZED INKWELL FROM THE UMAYYAD PERIOD, ROSETTA, EGYPT

Abstract

This research examines a glazed inkwell from the Umayyad era preserved in the Rosetta store of antiquities. It was discovered during excavations at Tell Abu Mandour in the 2022-2023 season. The study also seeks to characterise the artefact's chemical composition, identify its components in both the glaze layer and the fired clay body, and diagnose signs of deterioration. Therefore, the inkwell was documented using AutoCAD, and a multi-analytical approach was used to investigate the inkwell through stereomicroscopy, polarised light microscopy (PLM), scanning electron microscopy coupled with energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDX), X-ray diffraction (XRD), thermal analysis, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The results of microscopic examination revealed that the surface of the glaze layer had cracks, missing parts, accumulated dirt, peeling, and flaking. The polarised microscope indicated that the glazed inkwell consisted of three layers: the glaze, slip, and fired clay body. EDX confirmed the presence of a lead-based glaze containing manganese, copper, and iron colouring agents. XRD revealed the presence of quartz, gehlenite, and diopside, thereby confirming a calcareous clay body. FTIR spectroscopy indicated that gum Arabic was used to fix the decorations within the glaze layer. In addition, thermal analysis revealed that the clay body's firing temperature ranged from 850 °C to 900°C. Finally, the treatment and restoration processes were carried out, comprising cleaning, completion, and consolidation to preserve its artistic and archaeological value and protect it from further damage and deterioration.