FT-IR spectroscopic study of terra-cotta sarcophagi recently excavated in Ainos (Enez) Turkey

Abstract

In this study, painting materials and body samples of the decorated terra-cotta sarcophagi, and the body samples of six terra-cotta sarcophagi, recently excavated in Ancient Ainos (Enez) Turkey, were investigated, using the FT-IR spectrometry. EDXRF spectrometry was used as a complementary technique. The experimental results allowed us to identify the mineralogical composition of body samples and main pigments of the decorated parts of the terra-cotta sarcophagi. Spectroscopic results revealed that the investigated samples were fired to a temperature less than 750 degrees C. in the oxidising atmosphere. (C) 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.