The Carving Technology of the Handle‐Shaped Artefacts from Yinxu (c.1300–1046 bc) in China. (9th December 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Yue, C. L.; Song, G. D.; Zhu, J.; Ding, S. C.; Li, N. S.
• Is Part Of: Archaeometry. Volume 59:Number 3(2017)
• Page Start: 566
• Page End: 573
• Publication Date: 2016-12-09
• Subjects: Yinxu -- Handle‐Shaped Artefact -- Tool Mark -- Digital Microscope -- Scanning Electron Microscope; Archaeometry -- Periodicals; Archaeology -- Expertising -- Periodicals; 930.1
• DOI: 10.1111/arcm.12276
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0003-813X

Abstract

Abstract : The handle‐shaped artefact is a special jade object of the Three Dynasties (c.2000–200bc ) period. The manufacturing technology and function of the handle‐shaped artefacts are widely questioned. In this paper, two handle‐shaped artefacts from Yinxu (c.1300–1046bc ) are tested by digital microscope, Raman spectrometer and scanning electron microscope. The results indicate that the handle‐shaped artefacts might be made in four steps, namely rough shape cutting, edge reforming, handle making and single‐side polishing. It also suggests that the handle‐shaped artefacts might be used as sacrificial offerings, but not as hairpins or handles.