SPECTROSCOPIC ANALYSIS OF PIGMENTS OF THE ANTONELLO GAGINI ANNUNCIATION’S SCULPTURAL MARBLE GROUP, CHURCH OF ST. THEODORE MARTYR (BAGALADI, REGGIO CALABRIA, ITALY): CASE STUDY

Authors

  • G. Acri University of Messina, Department BIOMORF, Messina (ME), Italy
  • B. Testagrossa University of Messina, Department BIOMORF, Messina (ME), Italy
  • P. Faenza University of Rome La Sapienza, School of Specialization in the History of Art, Piazzale Aldo Moro, 5, Rome, Italy
  • F. Caridi Environmental Protection Agency of Calabria (ArpaCal) – Department of Reggio Calabria, Via Troncovito SNC – 89135 – Reggio Calabria (RC), Italy;University of Messina, Department of Veterinary Science, Polo Annunziata 98168 Messina (ME), Italy

Keywords:

X-Ray Fluorescence; Raman Scattering; Gilts; Annunciation’s sculptural group

Abstract

This study is focused on the compositional and structural analysis of ancient gilts of the famous renaissance
artist Antonello Gagini Annunciation’s sculptural group, made in 1504 AD and now preserved in the church
of St. Theodore martyr in Bagaladi, Reggio Calabria, Italy.
For this purpose, a combination of spectroscopic techniques was employed. X-ray fluorescence (XRF) spectroscopy
was used for the quantitative elemental analysis of the investigated samples. In order to identify
their crystalline mineral components and to study their microstructure, Raman Scattering (RS) measurements
were carried out.
The chemical composition of the investigated samples allowed to identify elements and compounds, closely
related to the sample preparation and preservation, with the aim to improve the knowledge of the gilding on
stone materials in the late Renaissance and in order to suggest to restorers the best interventions to minimize
the conservation problems that could affect the durability of the precious artefact.

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Published

2023-07-28

Issue

Vol. 20 No. 1 (2020)

Section

Articles