ABSTRACT
Radiography and endoscopy can both provide complementary information regarding the condition of ceramics. The case begins with field radiography, video endoscopy, portable fluoroscopy, and mobile CT scanning. XRF examination of the vestments demonstrated that the metallic threads seen on radiograph were primarily made of copper and silver. The XRF device was focused on one of the raised areas on the side of the mummy’s face where a pellet was known to be lodged as determined by X-ray. XRF analysis was also conducted on the surface of the mummy in several locations with each tracing indicating high concentrations of arsenic. Funerary and conservation practices can be assessed by employing XRF to determine the elemental makeup of materials used in such efforts as was the case of the wax masks of Gangi. The chemical components of mummification and/or embalming solutions can be identified in a nondestructive manner using XRF analysis.
