Exploring polychrome traces on 11th century clay figurines from Schroda, northern South Africa.

Abstract

This study analysed three selected figurines from the Schroda collection from the Ditsong National Museum of Cultural History. The primary objective of this thesis is to identify and assess any remnants of polychrome pigments present on the figurines, thereby contributing to a deeper understanding of their manufacturing techniques and potential functions. By expanding the knowledge base surrounding the Schroda archaeological site, this research seeks to enhance our understanding about the cultural and historical significance of these artefacts and the site they originate from. The study will explore the historical context of the Schroda site and its associated figurines. A thorough documentation process was carried out in which the use of technical photography and detailed condition reports for each figurine was be conducted. These foundational steps provided a comprehensive baseline for further analysis where technical analysis was carried out with a range of methods to investigate the figurines. These include visible light photography, ultraviolet fluorescence (UVF) and infrared (IR) photography, as well as X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy (XRF) and Micro-XRF scanning (μ-XRF). In combination, these analytical techniques could determine traces of polychrome pigments found on the figurines.