Western Han Dynasty (202 BC –8 AD ) Lacquerwares From the Yangzhou Region: A Case Study Based on the Lianying Han Tomb

ABSTRACT The lacquerwares excavated from the Lianying Han tombs in Yangzhou, a region historically renowned as a center of ancient Chinese lacquerware production, were investigated to elucidate their manufacturing practices using multi‐analytical methods, including digital microscopy (DM), upright fluorescence microscope (UFM), scanning electron microscopy with energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (SEM‐EDS), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR), thermogravimetric analysis and derivative thermogravimetry (TGA‐DTG), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), and pyrolysis‐gas chromatography/mass spectrometry using thermally assisted hydrolysis and methylation (THM‐Py‐GC/MS). The characterization of the core (the structural body of the lacquerware, e.g., the wooden or other substrate) and lacquer film materials, together with references to ancient literatures, offers a preliminary indication of certain lacquering techniques that have been used in Guangling State during the Western Han. The analytical results revealed that “ jiazhutai ” exhibits a more compact and solid structure, resulting in a better preservation status compared to the wooden core. The lacquer film comprised two to four layers, indicating distinct lacquering techniques. The ground and ash layers, composed of urushiol with potentially tung oil or linseed oil, enhanced interfacial adhesion with the core, while a bilayered primer promoted film durability and aging resistance. The red lacquer was made by mixing cinnabar into a matrix of urushiol with possible tung, linseed, or perilla oil. Urushiol was also detected in the black lacquer, which additionally contained quartz particles. Although the purpose of adding quartz remains unclear, it may parallel the traditional practice of incorporating minerals into lacquer ash. Collectively, these findings contribute to a better understanding of Han lacquering crafts and serve as a reference for future conservation efforts.