Preslav Art Ceramics in the First Bulgarian Empire: An Archaeometric Perspective

ABSTRACT The emergence of Preslav Art Ceramics (PAC) in the second Bulgarian capital is widely regarded as an emblematic expression of Old Bulgarian culture, but its archaeometric profile remains underexplored. This study represents a first attempt to complement archaeological evidence through an interdisciplinary approach combining several targeted analytical methods. Archaeometric results from PAC fragments and clay samples from the Byal Bryag deposit near Preslav, together with the archaeological observations, suggest that PAC production developed through a gradual technological process involving systematic material testing, experimentation and refinement. These findings support the hypothesis that PAC emerged as a local phenomenon, driven by specific needs and circumstances. External influences, if any, were likely conceptual rather than technological. Further studies based on a broader dataset will be essential to refine or revise these conclusions. The agreement between XRD and magnetic data underlines the reliability of both methods for estimating firing temperatures. Unlike XRD, the magnetic method allows reconstruction within a narrower interval of about 50°C. However, overestimations observed for pre‐fired Byal Bryag clay at certain temperatures highlight the importance of cross‐validation.