A multi-disciplinary investigation of the “Tavolette fuori posto” of the “Hall of Barons” wooden ceiling of the “Steri” (Palermo, Italy)

Abstract

Four painted slabs, called “Tavolette fuori posto” (Slabs out of place), of Galleria Interdisciplinare Regionale della Sicilia — Palazzo Abatellis (Palermo, Italy) were investigated with multi-techniques approach by using noninvasive and micro-destructive techniques. The slabs presumably belong to the decoration of the wooden ceiling of the “Hall of Barons” of the Palazzo Chiaramonte, said Steri, in Palermo (Italy). The aim of this study was to investigate the kind of materials used by the artist, the executive technique and the state of conservation. Pigments, binders and trace of previous restorations were identified. The results were used to properly plan the restoration intervention recently completed.