Non-Invasive Approach to Investigate the Mineralogy and Production Technology of the Mosaic tesserae from the Roman domus of Villa San Pancrazio (Taormina, Italy)

The archaeological excavations at Villa San Pancrazio (Taormina, Italy) are bringing to light a vast Roman-Imperial residential quarter featuring luxurious dwellings decorated with wall paintings and mosaic floors, pointing it out as one of the most significant sites city. polychrome black white mosaics recovered date back middle Imperial period, during 2nd century AD. This work deals first archaeometric investigations materials employed for tesserae production aim elucidating mineralogical composition obtaining analytical evidence that can contribute extracting information related their technology. For purpose, non-invasive methodology, based on micro energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence (μ-EDXRF) spectrometry Raman spectroscopy, was used characterize wide selection stone, ceramic glass tesserae. Chemometric tools were exploited manage large set elemental data collected lithic samples, providing essential clues subsequent investigations. results evidenced employment natural lithotypes (calcareous sedimentary, dolomitic volcanic) local imported, also artificial materials, such made firing magnesium-rich clays, soda-lime-silica glasses different opacifying coloring agents (such calcium antimoniate, cobalt copper).