Abstract
The production and manufacturing techniques of metals involve expertise, and the study of ancient artifacts relies on interdisciplinary skills. Metalworking processes used in the production of jewelry masterpieces can, for example, give indications on the provenance of an ancient object of an unknown origin and the techniques used. In this regard, metallic samples from the Chiaravalle Cross (a beautiful processional cross with a complex structure, dating to the 13th century) have been studied, combining bulk and point measurements. Neutron-based experiments (like Prompt Gamma Activation Analysis and neutron diffraction) provide the bulk of the elemental and mineralogical composition, while particle induced X-ray emission analyses evidenced important details on its manufacturing techniques.
Highlights
The Chiaravalle Cross is an ancient Italian processional cross [1] from Chiaravalle Abbey
With the help of prompt gamma activation analysis (PGAA) and particle induced X-ray emission (PIXE), we proved the presence of Hg, which is an indicator of the usage of the amalgam technique
We could confirm the use of the amalgam technique for the gilding of the filigree over a silver twisted thread and the use of copper in the soldering
Summary
The Chiaravalle Cross is an ancient Italian processional cross [1] from Chiaravalle Abbey (close toMilan, Italy). It was donated to the abbey by Louis the Pious, the youngest son of Charlemagne, in the year 822 AD, art historians in the 19th century [2] indicate it was a gift from Ottone Visconti, the bishop of Milan. There is a lack of any official documents about the provenance of this artifact. Over the centuries, it has been restored several times, for example in 1539, it was found again after being stolen in 1521. The St. Celso Sanctuary in Milan purchased it in 1799 to keep in the treasury of the sanctuary. In 1985 it was entrusted in a perpetual deposit to the treasury of the Milan Cathedral
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