Diagnostic investigation for the study of the fresco "Madonna con il bambino", from Cosenza, southern Italy: A case study

This contribution is focused on the diagnostic study of the fresco Madonna con il bambino located in the sanctuary of San Michele Arcangelo, San Donato Ninea (Cosenza), Calabria, southern Italy. In particular, the research was aimed to classify the fresco in terms of its constituent materials, execution technique and determination of possible additions made during previous restorations. Pigments and raw materials used for the making of the ground and the painted layers were studied by using optical stereo microscopy and scanning electron microscopy coupled with energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDS). Data provided information about historical and stylistic background, as well as advices for correct planning of the cleaning procedures, demonstrating the importance of the diagnostics before a restoration work.