Description

The sarcophagus of an infant is richly decorated with spiral flutings, a central bust of the deceased, two masks, and garland below. In the central clypeus there is the representation of a deceased infant; on the bottom, two masks with garland. By observing the masks, one may notice small, yet evident, yellow and red polychromic traces, which, at the time, adorned the marble surfaces of the sarcophagus. On the sides, there are two representations of ancient gods of the seasons. Along the upper edge, there is a listed inscription.

 State of Preservation

As the restoration began, the surface was darkened due to the presence of particulate and deposits. On the majority of the surface, there were further brown concretions of limestone. Moreover, the previous reassembling interventions of the three detached fragments had left adhesive leaking on the marble surface, which was very tenacious.

Restoration Procedures

Accurate investigations done by the Scientific Research Laboratory of the Vatican Museums revealed the nature and composition of the pigments; that in this case were yellow ochre and red ochre. The cleaning process was extremely delicate, given the presence of polychromies. Water-based solvents were used. To reduce the visual interference of the dark limestone layers, the cleaning process was carried out with a typology of Laser arranged with the Scientific Research Laboratory. The most recent red inscriptions have been removed. Underneath the red color, the restorers have found conspicuous red traces of older drafting which, according to scientific investigation, presents cinnabar. The resin leaking, given by bindings performed during a previous restoration, has been mechanically removed with the aid of organic solvents.Following the application of a protective layer and new plasters with a marble powder base, the artifact returned to its exhibition site.