Hongzhou Kiln, Archaeological kiln site in Fengcheng, Jiangxi, China.
Hongzhou Kiln is an archaeological site with around 26 kiln locations scattered across Fengcheng, revealing how potters used different production methods through different dynasties. The remains include oven structures, work areas, and pottery fragments that show how ancient craftspeople shaped and fired their wares.
The site operated as a pottery production center from the Eastern Han Dynasty through the Five Dynasties period, spanning eight distinct manufacturing phases over centuries. This continuous operation shows how firing methods and material sources changed as craftspeople adapted to new needs and resources.
The site takes its name from ancient ceramic traditions and reveals how pottery makers passed their skills down through generations. The scattered kiln remains show a community whose livelihood and identity were deeply tied to clay and fire.
The site is an open archaeological area where visitors can walk among the scattered kiln remains and study them at their own pace. Wear comfortable shoes since you will be moving between different locations spread across the terrain.
Chemical analysis of pottery pieces reveals five distinct material groups, each matching a specific production period and showing shifts in where clay sources came from. This discovery helps researchers understand when trade routes changed or local clay deposits ran out.
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