Archaeometric characterisation of materials and techniques in Roman wall painting: the Domus of Salvius in Cartagena, Spain

This paper presents the multi-analytical study of the pictorial ensemble in Room 3 of the Domus of Salvius in Carthago Nova with the aim of deepening knowledge of the technical processes and recipes used in the city’s pictorial ensembles. Dating from the late 1st—early 2nd century, it is one of the best preserved and most comprehensive examples in the city. Thin section and X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis of the mortars confirmed the use of locally sourced materials, noting the use of different extraction points between the beginning of the 1st century AD and the 2nd century AD. Pigment analysis with Raman spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) identified the painting techniques and the chromatic palette, highlighting the use of cinnabar, only documented until the middle of the 1st century AD. The results indicate the use of a recipe for applying pigments not previously observed on the peninsula.