RETOUCHING MANUFACTURED TILE MOSAICSA case study of the “Battle of Alexander” (1843) in Potsdam

Abstract

RETOUCHING MANUFACTURED TILE MOSAICS

A case study of the “Battle of Alexander” (1843) in Potsdam

Following an introductory overview of the ethical principles of restoration guiding the treatment of losses, this thesis presents various techniques and materials for retouching of ceramic objects. The focus lies primarily on European approaches, while also providing insights into methods used in Southeast Asia. Subsequently, the tile copy of the ancient Alexander mosaic from Pompeii is presented, located in the Roman Baths of the Prussian Palaces and Gardens Foundation in Potsdam. Based on a comprehensive review of previous scientific investigations, the relevant factors contributing to the deterioration of the “Battle of Alexander” tile mosaic are identified. In addition to an analysis of the damage phenomena affecting the tiles, an overview of the conservation and restoration measures implemented on the object so far is provided. Finally, five different retouching techniques are tested on five sample tiles each and evaluated regarding their suitability for the retouching of the tile mosaic.

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