Late Antique Domus of Via Dogana in Faenza: The Vestibulum Mosaic. Completion of the Restoration Work, New Methods for Conservation and Enhancement

Abstract

This paper describes the multidisciplinary study and the completion of the restoration work conducted on an important floor mosaic from the fifth century AD. The floor, a big polychrome and figured mosaic, was discovered in the 1970s in the city center of Faenza and belonged to the vestibulum of a late antique domus. An effective collaboration between the Parco Archeologico di Classe - RavennAntica Foundation and the University of Bologna Master Degree in Conservation and Restoration has allowed to experiment, test, and improve some methodologies concerning mosaic restoration and enhancement. Specifically, some experimental studies regarding the use of lime mortars were carried out, in order to reintegrate the small gaps in the mosaic. Furthermore, in addition to a three-dimensional relief of the whole floor, some virtual integration proposals were created. At the same time, some information panels were proposed to integrate the museum project. The restoration was thus a moment of study and active experimentation, that did not neglect the enhancement of such a significant artistic testimony.