Le sculture di Mont'e Prama - Conservazione e restauro

Il progetto di conservazione delle sculture di Mont'e Prama, a trentasei anni dal primo rinvenimento, sottolinea che la conservazione è studio e ricerca, che riceve e consegna nuove scoperte. Il progetto ha contemplato l'edizione dei lavori e dei risultati nella sequenza che si presenta. La descrizione degli interventi, rispondenti ai requisiti di conservazione riconosciuti e condivisi a livello internazionale, è articolata nei saggi e nel DVD allegato, quali strumenti imprescindibili per le integrazioni con gli ulteriori ritrovamenti.

Below it is possible to download the abstracts of CCA articles in the volume:

Download Le sculture di Monte e Prama_Presentazione.pdf (128.47 KB)
Download 2014 Nardi_Conservazione e restauro Il progetto Prenda e Zenia_abstract.pdf (44.52 KB)
Download 2014 Costanzi Cobau_Documentare per conservare_abstract.pdf (41.03 KB)
Download 2014 Costanzi Cobau_Alle radici della ricomposizione-la ricerca degli attacchi_abstract.pdf (37 KB)
Download 2014 Costanzi Cobau - Nardi_L intervento di conservazione e restauro_abstract.pdf (31.98 KB)
Download 2014 Nardi-Canale-Notaristefano_L ingegneria della musealizzazione_abstract.pdf (37.62 KB)
Download 2014 Costanzi Cobau_Il restauro virtuale_abstract.pdf (38.65 KB)
Download 2014 Costanzi Cobau_Il laboratorio diventa museo_abstract.pdf (39.13 KB)
Download 2014 Nardi_Conservazione preventiva_abstract.pdf (36.69 KB)
Download 2014 Costanzi Cobau-Boninu_Protagonisti e comprimari di una storia_abstract.pdf (29.71 KB)

The conservation of the mosaic of the Transfiguration in the Monastery of Saint Catherine in the Sinai

This article introduces the Monastery of Saint Catherine, where the CCA, Centro di Conservazione Archeologica of Rome, carried out a major conservation project between 2005-2008, restoring the mosaic of the Transfiguration. As well as describing the nature of the monument and its context, the author discusses the site’s fame among academics and its presence in the media. He presents an overview of the complex restoration procedures and detailed documentation process.  

Download Nardi 2014_The conservation of the mosaic of the transfiguration.pdf (2.34 MB)

La calce: utilizzare un materiale antico a garanzia del futuro

La calce è stata usata fin dall’antichità per la realizzazione di edifici, soffitti, di rivestimenti parietali, di pavimenti. Il loro stato di conservazione nel tempo offre l’empirica sicurezza che si tratti di un materiale in grado di invecchiare bene. Ciononostante, in una bibliografia della conservazione, la descrizione dell’uso della calce come materiale di restauro compare sempre in parti marginali. In questo articolo si vuole presentare l’utilizzo della calce aerea (grassello) in diverse miscele e soluzioni impiegate nel corso di trenta anni di cantieri di restauro eseguiti con il CCA, Centro di Conservazione Archeologica, in Italia ed all’estero.

Download Costanzi Cobau_2013_La calce.pdf (1.58 MB)

Conservation of the mosaic of the Transfiguration at Saint Catherine's

The Monastery of St. Catherine on Mount Sinai was built under the Byzantine emperor Justinian in the sixth century, on a site that had been venerated long before as the place where Moses encountered God in the form of the burning bush (Exodus 3:1-10). In the fourth century AD, a small shrine had stood there, built at the request of the Empress Helena, the mother of Costantine. For centuries, the high number of pilgrims, monks and hermits who had come to honor this holy place had endured the uninterrupted harassment of raiders and the harsh circumstances of the desert. This paper describes the conservation intervention of the mosaic of the Transfiguration, located in the apse of the basilica of the Monastery of St. Catherine's, as well as the methodological choices that have led to the conservation strategy that was adopted. As with all works of art, mosaics do not enjoy eternal life because of their very nature; to the contrary, they are fragile and need care and attention. Alarmed by clear signs of decay in the mosaic, the monastic community of St. Catherine's embarked on a conservation program and entrusted the work to the CCA, Centro di Conservazione Archeologica. The treatment, which began in November 2005, has been long, delicate and complex.

Download Nardi-Zizola_2013_Sinaiticus.pdf (1.25 MB)

Una nuova tomba dipinta della necropoli di Sa Pala Larga (Bonorva)

Recenti indagini hanno portato alla scoperta di un importante ipogeo, ricco di decorazioni soprattutto dipinte nella necropoli di Sa Pala Larga di Bonorva in Sardegna, che già in passato aveva restituito significativi esempi di arte funeraria prenuragica. L’articolo descrive la necropoli e la sequenza stratigrafica dello scavo della tomba. Vengono esposti anche gli elementi descrittivi dell’architettura e della decorazione del monumento. Infine, si analizzano le condizioni conservative delle pitture.

Download Costanzi-Cobau Sartor Usai_2011_Una nuova tomba dipinta della necropoli di Sa Pala Larga (Bonorva).pdf (1.2 MB)

Restoration of the 'Mosaic of the Transfiguration' in St. Catherine Monastery on Mount Sinai

The Monastery of St. Catherine on Mount Sinai was built under the Byzantine emperor Justinian in the sixth century AD, on a site that had been venerated long before as the place where Moses encountered God in the form of the burning bush (Exodus 3:1-10). For centuries, the high number of pilgrims, monks and hermits who had come to honor this holy place had endured the uninterrupted harassment of raiders and the harsh circumstances of the desert. Located at the height of 1.500 meters in a ravine at the foot of the Gebel Musa, where Moses received the Tables of the Law, the massive, fortfied walls of the monastery both enclose and protect the life of the monks who live there, their daily routine governed by the ringing of the church bells that call them to prayer from sunrise to sunset, according to the monastic traditions of the Greek Orthodox rite. The buildings within the walls form an ancient city, with manifold architectural styles from various ages. Only a short distance from the church's bell tower, stands the minaret of a small mosque: evidence of the peaceful coexistence between religions and peoples.

Download Nardi_2011_Restoration of the Mosaic of the Transfiguration in St. Catherine Monastery on Mount Sinai.pdf (2.26 MB)

Conservation in archaeology: case studies in the Mediterranean region

Roberto Nardi explores developments in the field of archaeological conservation, especially in regards to documentation and the study of monuments, preventive conservation, training, and public outreach. Conservation in archeology is a practice that is undergoing a continuous evolution, both in principles and in techniques. This article illustrates the contribution that the CCA, Centro di Conservazione Archeologica, provided to this process during the last 30 years. The conservation of the arch of Septimus Severus in the Roman Forum and of the Capitoline Museums in Rome, the mosaics conservation in Israel, the field conservation in Zeugma, Turkey, the conservation of the mosaic of the Trasfiguration in the monastery of Saint Catherine in Sinai, the conservation program of the collection of prehistoric sculptures of Monte Prama in Sardinia, Italy, are presented and critically reviewed.

http://www.archaeological.org/news/hca/3328.

Download Nardi_2010_Conservation in Archaeology.pdf (1.3 MB)

Mosaic Conservation: Fifty Years of Modern Practice

Mosaic conservation practice went through a significant evolution in the past decades. Fifty years ago mosaics were considered as single objects, without a context, and interventions were carried out without adequate planning. Few options were considered in conservation strategies, and detachment was basically the only options taken into consideration. Professionals working on mosaics were essentially craftsmen, workmen and builders; the materials used were limited to cement, gypsum and glues. This presentation debates the change of philosophy and practice of mosaic conservation that shaped the current state of the art in the profession.

Download de Guichen Nardi_2008_Mosaic conservation Fifty Years of Modern Practice.pdf (973.84 KB)

Summary Conclusions and Recommendations of the 9th Conference of ICCM

The conclusions of the IX conference of the ICCM, International Committee for the Conservation of Mosaics, represent an overview of the main issues, trends, and observations that emerged during the various thematic sessions. It is hoped that this overview provides some indication of the major points raised at the conference and illustrates significant trends of thought.

Download Nardi Teutonico_2008_Summary Conclusions and Recommendations of the 9th Conference of ICCM.pdf (578.06 KB)

Mosaic Conservation. Fifty Years of Modern Practice

Mosaics conservation is a practice as old as mosaic-making itself. We can see today ancient mosaics showing patches made as a maintenance practice when the floors were still in use. We are also aware that restoration was an art widely used in past centuries by antiquarians. We might also refer to brilliant examples of restorations implemented during the first decades of the 20th century.

Download de Guichen_Nardi_2006_Mosaic Conservation.pdf (1.55 MB)

Madrasa Amiriya. The Conservation of the Mural Paintings

The Amiriya Madrasa of Radà is one of the most important and significant monuments of Yemen. Constructed in 1504, it represents a jewel of Islamic art and architecture with its three built levels, 600 m² of tempera wall paintings and extensive, elaborate plaster decorations. It is notable for the balance achieved between the size of the structures and the refinement of the details. In 2000, the CCA, Centro di Conservazione Archeologica, was asked to restore the wall paintings that decorate the Prayer Hall, as well as to train six Yemeni technicians how to maintain the wall paintings. Published by the CCA in Arabic, English and Italian at the end of the treatment, the book describes the Amiriya Project, documents the work phases, analyses the original working process and the final results obtained in the conservation of the cycle of wall paintings that adorn the Prayer Hall. The volume is accompanied by a catalogue of the decorative elements of the cycle and technical forms illustrating types of deterioration. 

A preview is available for download in English and Italian.

Download Al Radi et al_2005_Amiriya Madrasa Conservation of the Mural Paintings.pdf (1.2 MB)
Download Al Radi et al_2005_Madrasa Amiriya Conservazione delle Pitture Murali.pdf (102.69 KB)

Aperto per Restauro. Comunicare la conservazione

In September 2001, a restoration worksite was opened in the Salone of the Palazzo Nuovo of the Capitoline Museums to treat two Roman statues from Hadrian's Villa: the Old Centaur and the Young Centaur. During the restoration, performed by the CCA, Centro di Conservazione Archeologica, the Salone of the museum was not closed to the public. We seized the opportunity to show all the phases of the work: a platform was equipped for the conservators to work on, and various cultural activities were organized at the same time in order to foster understanding of the treatment. The name "Open for Restoration" was given to the worksite and those related initiatives. This paper describes in Italian the initiatives organized during this conservation program.

Download Costanzi Cobau_2004_Aperto per restauro.pdf (1.05 MB)

Zeugma: l’intervento di conservazione, 2000-2003

Zeugma è il nome dato a due città, Apamea e Seleucia, fondate da Seleuco I (312-281 a.C.), sulle rive opposte del fiume Eufrate nel sud est dell’Anatolia, Turchia. Il sito, individuato nel 1970 dall’archeologo tedesco Jorg Wagner, è stato oggetto negli anni ottanta e novanta di alcune indagini archeologiche, condotte da David Kennedy dell’Università di Western Australia, da Catherine Abadie-Reynal dell’Università di La Rochelle e dal Ministero della Cultura della Turchia - Museo di Gaziantep. Negli stessi anni, Zeugma si è trovata coinvolta nel grande progetto di sfruttamento idroelettrico della regione, che ha comportato la costruzione di alcune dighe. Una di queste, la diga di Birecick, con il suo invaso, avrebbe durante l’estate del 2000 sommerso il 30% della superficie dell’antica città. A maggio del 2000, grazie anche agli eccezionali ritrovamenti di reperti mobili e di due ville riccamente decorate da affreschi e mosaici, gli sforzi di un editore di un giornale di Gaziantep riescono a far breccia nell’attenzione della stampa internazionale e la richiesta di aiuto per Zeugma inizia a fare rapidamente il giro del mondo. A raccogliere l’appello è il Packard Humanities Institute (PHI), con sede in California, che mette immediatamente a disposizione le risorse economiche ed umane necessarie ad organizzare e coordinare insieme al Ministero della Cultura della Turchia un piano di azione immediata.

Download Nardi_2003_Zeugma intervento di conservazione.pdf (136.7 KB)

Il restauro conservativo del mosaico di Quintus Calpurnius Eutyches-Zeugma

In October 2002 at Zeugma, Turkey, due to an exceptional lowering of the water level of the artificial lake for technical reasons by the direction of the Birecik dam, one of the largest mosaics ever found there came to light. Being in an unexcavated area, it had not been found during investigations in prior years.  It is a figured polychrome mosaic of 75 m². According to local accounts, it had suffered from an attempted theft in the 1970s, which had succeeded only in part, as discovered later on the site. Two figured panels in the center of the pavement are surrounded by complex, elaborate geometric designs. The mosaic's name derives from one of the Greek inscriptions bearing the name of Quintus Calpurnius Eutyches. This article illustrates the technical aspects of the detachment and conservation treatment of the mosaic.

Download Zizola_2003_Il restauro conservativo del mosaico di Quintus Calpurnius Eutyches-Zeugma.pdf (120.23 KB)

The Documentation during conservation of the mosaics of Zeugma, Turkey

A large and complex operation such as the one implemented in Zeugma, Turkey, must be supported by an efficient management plan. A key element of such a plan is detailed, integrated and digitized documentation. This will report the current state of conservation, technical and ancient features, and conservation treatments. Problems, solutions and techniques used will describe the documentation implemented during the intervention in progress on 800 m² of mosaics.

Download De Felice_2002_The Documentation during Conservation of the Mosaics of Zeugma Turkey.pdf (101.26 KB)

La conservazione e il restauro dei mosaici di Zeugma

The ancient city of Zeugma on the banks of the Euphrates in Turkey, was partially flooded in 2000 by the new Birecik dam. In May of 2000, the Packard Humanities Institute (PHI), in coordination with authorities of the Turkish Ministry of Culture, initiated an international rescue program based on a "targeted" archaeological investigation and a plan for conservation in situ: the Zeugma Archaeological Project (ZAP 2000); this was an emergency operation intended to increase topographical knowledge of the city and safeguard the finds before total flooding. The program also involved the restoration of everything that had been excavated and removed from Zeugma in the course of previous digs. The CCA, Centro di Conservazione Archeologica, was asked to plan and implement the conservation and restoration program. Starting in July 2000 through November of the same year, a group of 25 professional Italian and Turkish conservators carried out the program during and after the archaeological excavation. Subsequently, the same group worked on the restoration of 800 m² of mosaics removed from Zeugma. The volume describes the various operations performed, with particular reference to the mosaics.

Download Nardi_2002_La conservazione e il restauro dei mosaici di Zeugma.pdf (2.85 MB)

Per una carta della conservazione del mosaico

Da più di 40 anni gli specialisti della conservazione dei siti archeologici si riuniscono per discutere fatti e temi inerenti il patrimonio. Questo sforzo comune si è concretizzato in pubblicazioni quasi sempre corredate di dichiarazioni conclusive che riportavano linee guida metodologiche e raccomandazioni. Da 25 anni il campo professionale si è arricchito di un nuovo strumento specialistico, the International Committee for the Conservation of Mosaics (ICCM). Questo comitato si riunisce ogni tre anni in un convegno che ha prodotto negli anni una consistente letteratura, oggi strumento fondamentale di riferimento per la professione. Allo stesso tempo, al termine di alcuni di questi incontri sono state redatte delle raccomandazioni metodologiche atte a facilitare il raggiungimento dell'obiettivo comune: la conservazione del mosaico. Allo stesso tempo, la vita quotidiana sul campo degli addetti ai lavori è segnata dalle difficoltà grandi e piccole di tutti i giorni. Prima tra tutti quella della mancanza di un testo unico di riferimento al quale rifarsi in caso di incertezza metodologica o comunque l'assenza di uno strumento utilizzabile come documento nel quale tecniche e metodologie siano codificate. Obiettivo del lavoro qui presentato è quello di produrre una analisi preliminare dei materiali già esistenti sotto forma di "raccomandazioni", e a far nascere una piazza comune in grado di fungere da catalizzatore di un dibattito professionale utile a codificare principi e metodologie e a produrre una carta di riferimento.

Download Nardi_2000_Per una carta della conservazione del mosaico.pdf (140.64 KB)

Archaeological mosaics: from detachment and transport to museums and storerooms to in situ conservation practice

In the course of a few decades, the discipline of conservation of archaeological mosaics has matured quickly: from detachment and transport to museums and storerooms (done systematically as the only form of safeguard), it has arrived at the theoretical and methodological formulation of in situ conservation, flanked by the development of an approach for damage control. Today, conservation in situ is no longer an experimental field but a well-developed discipline, with a wide range of application, good practice and solid technique. Intervention methods such as detachment and removal of artifacts from the site are seen as urgent remedies to be used, after careful evaluation, only in cases where the risk of loss or destruction cannot otherwise be avoided (risks from theft, urbanization, road works) and when in situ consolidation and conservation have been shown to be ineffective. This paper trace the evolution towards in situ conservation and the application of methodologies infused with respect for history and the nature of the components, with minimum interventions and preventive conservation through various restoration charters, international recommendations and in the professional literature.

Download Nardi Zizola_2011_Archaeological mosaics. From detachment and transport to museums and storerooms to in situ conservation practice.pdf (138.63 KB)

Tourism management of archaeological sites within an urban context: a balanced compromise between preventive conservation and cultural use

The real emergency today and even more tomorrow, will not be in those sites in the urban environment, known, visited and sometimes also maintained, but in the tens of thousands of sites where decay and destruction are everyday events because they have been abandoned, or because they are poorly managed. Sites that yesterday enjoyed a “a certain oblivion”, but today are entering more and more into the big circuit of so called “cultural tourism”. Everyday cultural property suffers irreversible damage due to the lack of even minimal protective measures. This article presents three initiatives carried out by the Centro di Conservazione Archeologica in the field of training, maintenance and raising awareness. The first initiative is relative to a training programme for site directors, that CCA organised for UNESCO financed by the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The second initiative is related to the study and application of techniques of maintenance of archaeological structures in sites open to the public. The third and last initiative concerns the raising awareness to themes of fragility of the cultural heritage and its safeguarding. An exhibition entitled “S.O.S. Save Our Sites” made up of 26 panels, divided into three sections, in English and Arabic organised by CCA for the Amman Office of UNESCO is presented.

Download Nardi_2000_Tourism management of archaeological sites .pdf (115.98 KB)

Ostia Antica. Piazzale delle Corporazioni. The maintenance of the mosaic floors

In 1998 the Superintendence of Ostia began a program for the conservation, protection and maintenance of monuments with open air mosaic floors. The Termae dei Cisiarii was the first monument to be treated (1994-96). In 1998, with the introduction of a special law for the 2000 Jubilee, a conservation program was created for the Piazzale delle Corporazioni. This program included the maintenance of the floors and indirect measures of protection such as new paths for visitors. Piazzale delle Corporazioni was one of the main squares of Ostia and is still today a key transit node for visitors. The ancient monument now consists of remains of the walls and about 1900 square metres of pavement. Of these, about 1000 sq. metres are mosaic, some in situ, others detached and laid on a cement base during the 1960s. The remainder is reconstructed in cement. This paper presents the maintenance program of all the floors, carried out during June and July 1998. The techniques, time and costs of the treatment, the conception of informing the public as the work progresses and the planned measures for protection and future maintenance are described.

Download Nardi_1999_Ostia Antica Piazzale delle Corporazioni.pdf (102.73 KB)

The conservation and restoration of the mosaic floor of the Bizantine Church (Western) in the Nabatean town of Mamshit in the Negev desert

During 1994 the CCA, Centro di Conservazione Archeologica, carried out the in situ conservation of the mosaic floors of the Bizantine  Church (Western Church) in the nabatean town of  Mamshit in the Negev Desert. This was a polichrome mosaic of about 80 square meters with geometrical, figurative decorations plus three inscriptions. The two months intervention on site was carried out by a team of 8 conservators and was implemented by using lime based techniques of in situ consolidation. A detailed documentation was carried out to record the consistency of the mosaic, the state of conservation, the treatments carried out.
When the intervention was almost completed the entire church was vandalized one night. The mosaic was heavily damaged and almost all figures and inscriptions destroyed. Local authorities immediately decided to answer with a strong political message and decided for a complete reconstruction of the mosaic. This was possible thanks to the accurate documentation carried out during the conservation intervention. The remaining mosaic was partially lifted, shipped to Rome, restored (or better re-made) and, after two years work, it was brougth back and relayed on site. This paper describes all those phases and concludes presenting the actual programme for future protection and maintenance on the monument.

Download Zizola_1999_The conservation and restoration Mamshit.pdf (125.15 KB)

Conservazione e restauro. I mosaici

In questo articolo si ripercorre il processo evolutivo che ha portato il concetto di "restauro del mosaico" verso la maturazione e l'attuale codificazione di un nuovo approccio chiamato "conservazione del mosaico", procedendo da un'analisi del significato che nella storia è stato attribuito alla decorazione musiva. Col mutare della percezione del valore delle opere dell'antichità, il restauratore é diventato conservatore: il manufatto non viene più "trasformato" e il messaggio dall'antico è mantenuto, evidenziato e trasmesso.

Download Nardi_1998_Conservazione e restauro. I mosaici..pdf (58.54 KB)

Conservazione e restauro. La pietra

Per secoli, fino ad epoca recente, il restauro è stata una attività prevalentemente volta alla cura materiale del supporto lapideo destinata al ripristino della sola consistenza della materia.Attualmente, partendo dal presupposto tecnico del restauro , la conservazione dei materiali lapidei si pone come obiettivo, oltre al recupero e la cura della materia del supporto, lo studio, la lettura, l'interpretazione, la trasmissione e la valorizzazione dei dati storici registrati sulle superfici monumentali. In questo articolo si ripercorre il processo evolutivo che ha portato verso la maturazione e l'attuale codificazione  della disciplina della conservazione dei materiali lapidei.

Download Nardi-Zizola_1998_Conservazione e restauro. La pietra..pdf (75.25 KB)

Politica del restauro e della conservazione musiva: esempi a confronto

L’articolo presenta due esempi di  intervento su mosaici di scavo opposti tra loro, nei presupposti e nelle tecniche di realizzazione, eseguiti  nel Parco archeologico di Zippori, in Israele,  a distanza di 8 anni uno dall'altro. Il primo risale al 1987 ed è stato realizzato attraverso lo stacco e la riapplicazione in situ di un singolo pavimento. Il secondo, realizzato nel 1995 dal Centro di Conservazione Archeologica di Roma, ha riguardato 12 pavimenti a mosaico ed è stato eseguito secondo i principi e le metodologie della conservazione in situ.

Download Zizola_1998_Politica del restauro e della conservazione musiva Esempi a confronto.pdf (107.75 KB)

The conservation of mosaics in situ

The author stresses the importance of understanding the historical meaning of the different techniques employed in the past when treating archaeological mosaics in the present, during lifting, exhibiting or remounting, because these are directly related to how mosaics were or are historically appreciated by the public and the professionals that work directly with them. This is evidenced by the shift from the almost systematic lifting of mosaics to in situ conservation, application of principles of minimum intervention, reproducing antique formulations, and planning periodical maintenance. The function of the restorer is contrasted to his function in the past; from this point onwards he should conserve and preserve rather than transform mosaics, that is, the restorer should become the conservator. In this light, a list of new responsibilities demonstrates a new approach, where indirect actions prove to be more effective than direct treatments. Most importantly, the author provides his definition of in situ conservation, affirming that knowledge of the composition and deterioration mechanisms of mosaics is necessary for their direct treatment, when needed, which should be developed together with a maintenance plan. The discussion focused on this change of mentality and the visibility of its effects, as well as the definition of public.

Download Nardi_1997_The Conservation of Mosaics in Situ.pdf (96.62 KB)

Mamshit, Israel, and San Paolino alla Regola, Rome: what cooperation or interference between archaeologist and conservator can achieve

Archaeological sites are important for the messages that they convey from the past. Everything in archaeology must be devoted to the recovery, preservation, presentation and transmission of that message. Optimum results will be obtained when all professionals involved cooperate towards this common objective. This paper presents two cases of on-site conservation; frescoes of the 3rd century AD at Mamshit, Israel, and frescoes and mosaics of the 2nd century AD at San Paolino alla Regola, Rome. The first of these treatments was carried out many years after the excavation and represents an example of "maximum intervention-minimum efficiency". In the second case study, collaboration between conservator and archaeologist from the beginning of the excavation made it possible to follow the principle of "minimum intervention-maximum efficiency". Both the treatments presented used local materials similar to the originals. Preventive measures and maintenance programmes have been set up for future conservation.

Download Zizola Costanzi-Cobau Albini_1996_Rome San Paolino alla Regola and Mamshit Israel.pdf (151.05 KB)

The on site conservation of archaeological mosaics: the case of the building of the Nile in Zippori, Israel

This article describes the on-site conservation of 12 polychrome floor mosaics found in a 3rd-cent. A.D public building in Zippori, Israel. The intervention is part of a broader project directed by the National Parks Authority of Israel, and includes the construction of fixed architectural roofing, the consequent temporary protection of the mosaics and sealing the trenches left from the removal of the original masonry walls. The conservation work was carried out allowing the public to watch the work "live".  This paper describes the treatments on the mosaics and comments on various aspects.  Starting with technical procedures, we will then consider the principles and the objectives behind the choice of the methods followed and we will conclude with some general reflections.

Download Costanzi-Cobau Nardi_1996_The on Site Conservation of Archaeological Mosaics The case of the building of the Nile in Zippori Israel.pdf (251.69 KB)

The treatment of mosaics in situ

The author stresses the importance of understanding the historical meaning of the different techniques employed in the past when treating archaeological mosaics in the present, during lifting, exhibiting or remounting, because these are directly related to how mosaics were or are historically appreciated by the public and the professionals that work directly with them. This is evidenced by the shift from the almost systematic lifting of mosaics to in situ conservation, application of principles of minimum intervention, reproducing antique formulations, and planning periodical maintenance. The function of the restorer is contrasted to his function in the past; from this point onwards he should conserve and preserve rather than transform mosaics, that is, the restorer should become the conservator. In this light, a list of new responsibilities demonstrates a new approach, where indirect actions prove to be more effective than direct treatments. Most importantly, the author provides his definition of in situ conservation, affirming that knowledge of the composition and deterioration mechanisms of mosaics is necessary for their direct treatment, when needed, which should be developed together with a maintenance plan. The discussion focused on this change of mentality and the visibility of its effects, as well as the definition of public.

Download Nardi_1996_The Treatment of Mosaics in Situ.pdf (124.78 KB)

The conservation of the atrium of the Capitoline Museum

This paper presents the conservation program of the Atrium of the Capitoline Museum in Rome and of the collection of classical sculptures housed on the ground floor. The work was carried out leaving the site open to the public and various initiatives were organized to inform visitors. New equipment was specially designed for this project: planning, documentation, historic and archival research gave the required information to program the intervention. Cleaning was carried out using atomized water and mechanical tools; lime-based materials were used for consolidation, stuccoing and protection. Following the conservation intervention a maintenance program is currently being implemented.

Download Nardi_1996_The Conservation of the Atrium of the Capitoline Museum.pdf (155.61 KB)

Preventive conservation and restoration: a matter of costs

In the treatment of seriously decayed monuments, the objective of the conservator is to return the monument to the point where ordinary maintenance is once again possible. One of the main difficulties is persuading administrations to approve programmes for the maintenance of newly restored monuments. Conservators have to change their language if they want to be understood. One of the strong points of maintenance is how much can be saved by developing a maintenance programme which avoids the need to repeat expensive restoration every 10 years. The authors present the maintenance programme planned for the structures of the Atrium of the Capitoline Museum and the collection of Roman sculptures on display, restored after two years of work.
  

Available for download in English and Italian.

Download La Rocca and Nardi_1994_Preventive conservation and restoration.pdf (105.49 KB)
Download La Rocca Nardi_1994_Conservazione preventiva e restauro una questione di costi.pdf (100.36 KB)

Preventive conservation of mosaics at archaeological sites

The state of preservation of mosaics in Mediterranean contries can be described with adjectives that range from "terrible" to "catastrophic". This article tries to analyze the problem and proposes some solutions. The problem can be solved only by developping a programme of planning and safekeeping, i.e. by affirming the concept of preventive conservation. Such an approach cannot be improvised: it can only develop as the result of a careful educational process that will effectively train future archaeologists and administrators.

Also available for download in italian.

Download Nardi_1994_Preventive conservation of mosaics at archaeological sites.pdf (863.43 KB)
Download Nardi_1994_Conservazione preventiva del mosaico nei siti archeologici.pdf (94.15 KB)

In situ consolidation of a Roman fresco near Ein Yael, Jerusalem

In the spring of 1990, the Department of Antiquities of Israel carried out an in situ conservation intervention of a Roman fresco from a villa near Ein Yael, located in the vicinity of Jerusalem. The intervention was carried out according to the following principles: in situ consolidation of the fresco; use of products compatible with the original components; application of techniques similar to the ancient ones; use of local products and equipment, roofing and protection against water as preventive measures; and a maintenance program. In the spring of 1992, an examination of the structure confirmed the highly effective intervention.

Available for download in English and Italian.

Download Costanzi Cobau_1993_In situ consolidation of a Roman fresco..pdf (113.08 KB)
Download Costanzi-Cobau_1993_Conservazione in situ di un affresco romano Ein Yael Gerusalemme.pdf (114.28 KB)

Esempi di grafica assistita da computer a fini di documentazione

The graphic documentation of the state of conservation of ancient monuments, and of the conservation processes applied to them, is considered today an essential feature of a serious conservation project. However, such documentation normally produces a vast amount of large-size drawings on paper which is costly to originate and to update; furthermore, it poses serious problems as to handling, storage and consultation. These problems may be solved by the use of computer graphics which allow a rapid update and reproduction of all drawings, once the basic survey data are memorized; furthermore the storage for archival purposes is much easier, considering the small volume that the data occupy in this form. The present paper illustrates some examples, and in particular the "Arch of Septimius Severus", in Rome. In the latter case the computer drawings on which various sets of data were recorded were printed on transparent sheets; this allows to examine drawings one by one or to superimpose a small number of them, in order to explore possible relationships between two or more sets of data.

Download Nardi _1992_Una tecnica grafica assistita da computer per il disegno e archivio di documentazione archeologica.pdf (116.07 KB)

The Roman Forum. On-site conservation of floor surfaces during excavation

Over the last few decades the question of prevention in the field of archaeology has received widespread attention that the need for collaboration between conservator and archaeologist is taken for granted. There was a reciprocal, initial misunderstanding due mainly to various deficiencies in the training of conservators who found themselves working in (ideal) conditions far different from the ideal one they were used to in the laboratory. Here the causes of deterioration are discovered, isolated and removed. Instead, the conservator working with the archaeologist has learned to maneuver in a continually changing environment, where the causes of deterioration are directly linked to the most specific instrument of archaeology itself: the excavation. Archaeological conservation must step away from the concept of "first aid" emergency treatments and consider instead all the prevention and safeguarding operations that take into account the immediate surroundings, and generally have no evident verification.

Download Costanzi Cobau_1990_The Roman Forum. .pdf (91.79 KB)

Conservation of Archaeological Mosaics: the State of the Problem in the Light of a Recent International Course

This article described the experience of the 1th International Course for the Safeguard of Archaeological Mosaics, held in Rome, 19 September - 13 October 1990. The course was organized by ICCROM and ICR (now ISCR). We feel that it could be of general interest, for it provided the means and the occasion to examine various points:

• the state of conservation of archaeological mosaics in situ;
• the reasons for a situation that appears extremely serious in our view, and possible conditions for improving it;
• the relationship between specialized aspects, such as interventions on the mosaic per se, and management and conservation on the scale of the entire site;
• professional training of directors and personnel responsible for the sites themselves;
• the disparity of technical approach and theoretical foundation behind many proposed interventions.

Download Melucco Nardi de Guichen_1990_Conservation of Archaeological Mosaics.pdf (77.54 KB)

Il Tempio di Vespasiano: un palinsesto nella storia del Foro Romano

Il Tempio di Vespasiano, per quanto riguarda la sua architettura e la sua valenza topografica, è troppo noto per doverne parlare in dettaglio. Del resto lo scopo del nostro lavoro non è questo; semmai esso riguarda le vicende che coinvolsero il monumento durante il periodo di abbandono.

Excavated wall plasters: conservation problems

This report describes some conservation interventions on wall paintings and plasters discovered in situ at the Crypta Balbi excavation in Rome.

The following cases in particular are analyzed:

• wall plasters on structures of tuff and travertine with problems of rising damp, water infiltration from the rear, and biological attack;
• consolidation of mortars used as rendering on niches;
• conservation assistance during excavation of frescoes on site;
• sampling of plasters.

Arco di Settimio Severo, analisi archeologica e conservativa 1979-83

Nel 1979 si è dato inizio ad una serie di studi sull’Arco di Settimio Severo, nati come argomento di tesi di laurea per la Cattedra di Rilievo e Analisi tecnica dei Monumenti Antichi, diretta dal prof. C.F. Giuliani; la ricerca è poi proseguita e oggi è possibile elencare una prima serie di risultati:

• è concluso il rilievo grafico della metà sud del monumento;
• è in via di pubblicazione una analisi critica delle fonti storiche e iconografiche;
• è stata eseguita una mappatura dello stato di conservazione del progetto S-SE, nata come proposta sperimentale, e oggi estesa anche ad altri monumenti;
• è stato redatto un progetto di intervento di restauro, che nel prossimo aprile diverrà operativo.

Download Nardi_1986_Arco di Settimio Severo analisi archeologica e conservativa.pdf (1.84 MB)

Conservation on the excavation: the Crypt of Balbus in Roma

The paper reports a series of in situ conservation interventions carried out during the excavation campaigns in the Crypta Balbi in Rome. The area, situated in the centre of the city, is more than 2500 sq.m. in area and is particularly interesting for its historical stratification of more than two millennia duration.
The interventions described are:

• consolidation of a wall of mud brick laid in clay;
• consolidation of a wall of fired bricks in clay;
• consolidation of a floor mosaic;
• recovery of ceramic material and a “Capuchin” tomb;
• conservation/restoration of coins.

Uno scarico di intonaci dipinti

Lo scavo di una fossa praticata a ridosso del muro circolare dell’esedra antica, verosimilmente in occasione dell’erezione del muro perimetrale del Conservatorio, ha consentito il recupero di un ingente scarico di frammenti di intonaci dipinti di età medioevale, che costituiscono un contesto omogeneo di considerevole interesse.
Si tratta di un complesso di 1335 frammenti, di cui il maggiore non supera i cm² 100 che denotano, dalla varietà delle campiture di sottofondo, di appartenere a più tipo di decorazione.
La probabilità di riuscita nella ricostruzione dei vari tipi è apparsa scarsa, vista la sproporzione tra la grandezza massima dei frammenti e la possibile superficie murale coperta, di cui non si conosce l’entità. Per questo è stato scelto il criterio della divisione per gruppi a seconda dei colori, delle sovrapposizioni degli stessi, del verso delle pennellate. Questo criterio ha permesso di distinguere le decorazioni sovradipinte dai motivi a bande colorate.

Notes en marge de la fréquentation du temple de Vespasien et Titus au Forum Romain

Le temple de Vespasien et de Titus propose de nombreux éléments intéressants, lies a sa position topographique et a l’histoire de l’édifice et du site.
Il semble donc plus que jamais utile de reconnaitre de près les surfaces et d’effectuer une analyse comparée des résultats obtenus avec les sources historiques et iconographiques et les informations concernant les autres monuments de la zone.
C’est ce qui a été fait, en profitant de l’intervention de restauration en cours et des structures temporaires de couverture du monument.

Il restauro delle lapidi capitoline. Indagini preliminari

La Galleria di Congiunzione è un ambiente ipogeo che ospita parte della Collezione Lapidaria Capitolina. Le epigrafi furono murate nelle pareti laterali delle sale sotterranee nel corso di una sistemazione generale degli ambienti negli anni 40-50.
Purtroppo, nonostante la meticolosità dell’intervento, che tenne conto del problema dell’isolamento igrometrico con l’erezione di doppi muri e dunque di un’intercapedine, ci troviamo di fronte a condizioni di cui per ora sfugge il controllo ma che hanno comunque determinato il danneggiamento grave delle lastre e reso impossibile il mantenimento in situ delle stesse.
Con questi presupposti e grazie all’interessamento e alla sensibilità della dott.ssa M. Mattei, responsabile del settore epigrafico dei Musei Capitolini, è stato dato avvio al programma di intervento, di cui il presente scritto è una breve presentazione, affidato al CCA, Centro di Conservazione Archeologica.

Project for the Arch of Septimius Severus, Rome

The Arch of Septimius Severus is one of the Roman monuments included in the conservation programme under the auspices of the law for the archaeological-monumental heritage of Rome.
The intervention on the Arch of Septimius Severus began in 1979 and is being directed by the author and the Centro di Conservazione Archeologica (Centre for Archaeological Conservation), a private firm involved in the study, restoration and maintenance of ancient monuments, of which the author is the director. The current programme focuses on the study of the artefact, the planning and execution of the restoration intervention, and the planning and execution of the maintenance procedures. 

Technique d'application de la fin du XVIIIe sicle et du debut du XIXe siecle de quelques pavements du Musee archologique de Naples

Les mosaiques detachées de Pompei et de la region au XVIIIe et XIXe siècles et servant actuellement de pavement au Musée de Naples ont du etre détachées pour permettre le renforcement des sols ebranlés lors du tremblement de terre de 1980. Ceci a permis d’étudier la technique d’application sur dalle de piperno. Il semble que les pavements y furent appliqués avec de la colophane alors que la dalle était maintenue chaude.

The mosaics from Pompei and the Campanian region that were detached in the 18^th and 19^th centuries and which now pave the floors of the Naples museum have had to be lifted once more to allow the consolidation of the underlying floors that were badly shacken during the 1980 earthquake. This has allowed the study of the technique used of applying mosaics on the piperno slabs. It seems that the pavement was laid using colophane was the slab was kept warm.