Multi-Technique Characterization of Mural Paintings at the Santa Maria Gratia Plena Church in Bruzzano Vetere (Calabria, Southern Italy)

Lorenzo Pistorino, Francesco Caridi, Giuseppe Paladini, Pasquale Faenza, Domenico Majolino, Valentina Venuti

Abstract

In this study, a multi-technique analytical approach involving X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF) spectroscopy and Micro-Raman Scattering (MRS) was applied to investigate the mural paintings of the Santa Maria Gratia Plena Church, integrated into the medieval fortress of Bruzzano Vetere (Calabria, Italy). The study was aimed at assessing, on one hand, the composition of the pigmenting agents and raw materials used for the realization of the investigated artworks and, on the other hand, at evaluating the degradation processes affecting the painted surfaces and any possible undocumented restoration interventions. The results of such a multidisciplinary approach, which involved the integration of data from different surveys, contribute to a more complete understanding of the state of conservation of the paintings, and offer a scientific basis for future conservation and restoration efforts aimed at preserving and maintaining this historically significant yet currently abandoned site.

Download

IMEKO-Metroarchaeo-2025-025.pdf

DOI

10.21014/tc26-2025.025

IMEKO TC

TC26 - Metrology for Cultural Heritage

Back to the proceedings