Diagnostic Analyses for the Study of Materials, Technique and State of Preservation of a Gilt and Painted Leather of the XVIII Century

Abstract In this study we report on the restoration work for the gilded and painted leather from the Sanctuary of the Santissimo Crocifisso di Papardura in Enna, Italy. The work started with a historical and stylistic examination of the artwork which dates back to 18th Century. The study of the leather and its decoration was deepened thanks to specific scientific analysis (such as XRF spectroscopy, Raman and SEM) in order to assure the integrity of the material during the restoration work. To this end, a diagnostic procedure was set up to provide a clear picture of constitutive materials (type of leather, silver leaf and pigments), technique, and state of preservation.