Spectroscopic analyses of Hellenistic painted plasters from 2nd century B.C., Sicily (South Italy)

In the present work, an analytical characterization of painted plaster samples coming from ancient buildings dated back to 2nd cent. B.C., located in Licata (Sicily, Southern Italy), has been carried out. The investigation has been performed through different spectroscopic techniques: X-ray fluorescence (XRF) using an handheld energy-dispersive XRF analyzer, scanning electron microscopy equipped with an Energy Dispersive Spectrometry microanalysis detector (SEM-EDS) and Fourier transform infrared absorbance spectroscopy (FT-IR). The main goal is to identify the plaster and pigments material. In particular, the XRF investigation of surfaces is the first step for a preliminary elemental characterization. Then, through SEM-EDS measurements, a quantitative analysis of the chemical composition of the plaster and the pigmenting agents along with eventual components related to deterioration processes has been obtained. Finally, FT-IR absorbance spectra have proven to be a useful tool to investigate the molecular nature of the used materials.     

Steven J. Ross,Working-Class Hollywood: Silent Film and the Shaping of Class in America

Journal of Cultural Economics -     

On 3D reconstruction of the old city of Xanthi. A minimum budget approach to virtual touring based on photogrammetry

The old city of Xanthi (Thrace–Greece) is one of the biggest traditional settlements in Greece which has the specialty to exhibit mixed traditional Greek, European and Oriental architectural features. This paper presents a 3D reconstruction of a small part of the settlement. It deals with the idea of using open source systems in 3D graphics in order to produce realistic virtual walkthroughs for culture heritage promotion with a minimum budget and low cost infrastructure.     

The “manifest destiny” of the performing arts by A. Peacock

Journal of Cultural Economics -