Α red figure pelike of Kerch type from the archaeological museum of Thessaloniki, Archaeometrical investigation

• PLM & SEM microscopy, XRF and XRD analysis used for the investigation of a red figure pelike with uncertain provenance. • Elaborate decoration/rendering and an ancient gap filling of a damaged area emphasize the importance of the AMTh’s pelike. • Kaolinite, magnetite and red ocher were identified on the pelike’s decoration using PLM, XRF & Raman analysis. • Chemical and mineralogical similarities were noticed between the fabric of the pelike and certain ceramics from Chalkidice. A red-figure pelike with uncertain provenance from the collection of the Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki (AMTh) has been stylistically and arhaeometrically studied. The vase is a work of the fourth century BC, stylistically attributed to an Attic workshop and said to be found in Chalkidice. Stereo, PLM microscopy and Scanning Electron Microscopy were used for the investigation and characterization of the pelike’s ceramic body. In addition, its colorant and the soil deposits were analysed by Raman microspectroscopy and FTIR respectively. Magnetite, red ochre and kaolinite had been identified. Furthermore, a comparison of the pelike’s chemical composition with forty samples from fine grained ceramic vases found in excavations from the Chalkidice area was contacted. The pelike’s fabric present chemical and mineralogical similarities with two vases from the comparison group. Finally, clear evidence was found that the object had undergone extensive repairs in antiquity.