Investigations by FT-IR spectroscopy on residues in pottery cosmetic vases from archaeological sites in the Mediterranean basin

The present study was aimed at investigating, by FT-IR spectroscopy, residues in some whole archaeological vases, different in form and dimensions, but all classified as containers for cosmetics. The analyses performed on the as-sampled material and after extraction with a solvent were examined and compared. The results highlighted dissimilar composition of the residues for containers different in shape and provenance. Lipids, vegetable resins, and proteinaceous compound were identified. Also some inorganic products (such as calcite or clay minerals) were found as intended ingredients of the cosmetic preparations. The FT-IR spectroscopy provided a simple, quick and cheap analytical method, which allows obtaining reliable and sound data using a limited preparation of the samples. In addition, this technique was found very useful in case of these unbroken precious artifacts, where damage has to be avoided.