Study and micro-Raman characterization of pigments present on majolicas of historical and artistic interest from Gerace, Italy

In this work, pigments of majolicas made between the sixteenth century and eighteenth century from Gerace have been characterized by micro-Raman spectroscopy. Majolica, known also as pottery, was originally used to identify all objects made from clay materials. In this work, ten samples were analyzed: two vases, six majolica fragments made in Gerace, one vase of uncertain origin (probably Gerace or Caltagirone) and one vase of Venetian origin. The Raman spectroscopic analysis allowed to identify most of the pigments present on the studied cultural heritage pottery above described. Pigments white, yellow, orange, red, blue, and green have been characterized and their attribution allowed to divide the artwork made in Gerace with those made wherever.

Automated summary

The pigments used in majolicas made between the sixteenth and eighteenth centuries in Gerace have been analyzed using micro-Raman spectroscopy. This study examined ten samples, including vases, majolica fragments, and vases of uncertain origin. Raman spectroscopic analysis identified the majority of the pigments used in these cultural heritage pottery, allowing for differentiation between artwork made in Gerace and elsewhere.