• M. V. Kovalchuk
  • E. B. Yatsishina
  • N. A. Makarov
  • E. A. Greshnikov
  • A. A. Antsiferova
  • O. L. Gunchina
  • P. K. Kashkarov
  • E. S. Kovalenko
  • M. M. Murashev
  • S. V. Olkhovskii
  • K. M. Podurets
  • V. B. Timerkaev

Abstract: An ancient terracotta sculpture (bearded male head), found in underwater excavations in the Kerch Bay (performed by experts of the Institute of Archaeology of the Russian Academy of Sciences before the construction of Crimean bridge pillars), has been studied at the National Research Centre “Kurchatov Institute” using neutron and X-ray tomography. Based on the analysis of revealed technological seams, it is established that the object was made primarily by sculpturing, with successive addition of profiled details (hairstyle, nose, eyelids, eye, ears, nasolabial fold, beard) to the clay base. The terracotta was likely attached by its lower part to the lost support or base by a lead tie. All studies were carried out by nondestructive methods allowing for monitoring hidden cavities, which may further pose a threat to the preservation of valuable cultural heritage object.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)805-811
Number of pages7
JournalCrystallography Reports
Volume65
Issue number5
DOIs
StatePublished - 1 Sep 2020

    Scopus subject areas

  • Chemistry(all)
  • Materials Science(all)
  • Condensed Matter Physics

ID: 88197960