Investigation of Ancient Wall Painting Fragments Discovered in the Roman Baths from Alburnus Maior by Complementary Non-Destructive Techniques

In this study, several wall painting fragments discovered in the Roman baths from archeological site Alburnus Maior (Roşia Montană, Romania) were analyzed with aim to investigate material composition of both plasters and pictorial layers. Dated beginning second century AD, these rare findings stand among oldest examples preserved decorative polychrome paintings on plaster excavated thus far former territory province Dacia. A non-destructive multi-analytical approach based complementary techniques was considered: Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, X-ray fluorescence (XRF), diffraction (XRD), UV fluorescence, hyperspectral imaging (HSI). The obtained results highlight a common color palette mainly naturally occurring earth pigments. Red ochre, yellow manganese-rich ochres/wads, carbon black, calcite identified. traditional two-layer sequence found—arriccio (based lime siliceous sands), intonaco (pure lime). presence an organic protein binder, identified via FTIR analysis, sustained by combined documentation, indicates that pigments applied secco. are discussed relation previous published data, they can be considered as valuable indicators contribute understanding materials used provinces.