Research Summary

This project will advance knowledge of the technological development, distribution and use of two decoration glass technics: filigree and pick-up decoration from the 16th and 17th centuries. It aims at establishing patterns for the evolution of the decoration techniques over the years, by analysing glass fragments found in Portuguese archaeological contexts. This new knowledge will be evaluated in a broader cultural framework, considering peoples’ tastes (regarding decoration motives and colour changes) and also the trade flow between Portugal and other European countries. It will also contribute to better understand the material deterioration, trying to distinguish if the crizzling and cracks are due to material incompatibility or to burial conditions.
Reproductions of this decorations based on historical written sources will support the study of the corrosion processes of these heterogeneous glass objects. A multi-analytical approach will be carried out based on Optical Microscopy, UV-VIS Reflectance Spectroscopy, Proton Induced X-ray Emission and Raman Microscopy.

PhD Project title: Filigree and Pick-up decoration, Study of glass fragments unearthed in Portugal (16th and 17th centuries).

Supervisors: Márcia Vilarigues (VICARTE, DCR FCT-UNL, Portugal), Teresa Medici (VICARTE) and Inês Coutinho (VICARTE, DCR FCT-UNL, Portugal).