Assessment of Architectural Terracotta Friezes in Bologna

Abstract

This study of Bolognese terracotta decoration aims to identify the chronology of decorative typologies and to determine the appropriate conservation methodology. Practical proposals can change depending on the different types of terracotta and the techniques used in their production. The first part of this paper describes cornices from the eleventh to the sixteenth century, paying particular attention to how individual elements are combined and arranged together. The second part examines the coatings and colours applied in the second half of the fifteenth century by comparing mineralogical and stratigraphic analyses conducted on the cornices of three buildings. The third part proposes solutions for cleaning, consolidation and conservation that aim to preserve the stratigraphy and surface finish. The paper concludes with proposals for rapid prototyping and reverse engineering of the restoration of ruined terracotta friezes.