For the first time in the article the analysis and systematization of twin ceramic tiles of the XII century from the city of Busk is performed. Metric characteristics, technology of tile execution and its watering, installation technology are determined. A restoration program has been developed and work on the monument has been practically implemented.
During the chemical-technological studies of two samples it was found that the mineral composition of lime-sand solution consists of quartz sand, slaked lime, organic additives and the mineral masicot, which corresponds to the chemical formula PbO, and lead oxide Pb2O. Thus, during the princely era to create a strong solution add protein, resulting in the formation of casein, over time in this solution could function organisms (which would feed on microcasein), so to prevent the formation of microorganisms added antiseptic - lead oxide.
Analysis of brown ceramic glaze showed that this color is formed by mixing the tops of oxide forms of calcium and pork, as well as quartz sand, clay raw materials and feldspar. Yellow ceramic glaze was the result of the presence of a significant amount of lead oxide in the charge. Green ceramic glaze was formed due to the presence of a copper element in the silicate matrix.Fluorescent glow is characteristic of yellow and greenish coating. This effect is achieved due to the addition of a mixture of wood and bone ash (phosphorus). Yellow-green ceramic glaze is stronger than brown.. This was reflected in the state of preservation of the decorative surface of the tiles, and is also a consequence of the fact that the yellowish ceramic glaze was more homogeneous due to the lead content. In contrast, brown ceramic glaze was less robust due to the additional introduction of Fe2O3 oxide into the charge.
The program of restoration of finishing tiles consists of several stages: photo-fixation of the monument before restoration; execution of measurement drawings and cartograms of losses; part of the ceramic tiles that were in a critically unstable state was strengthen the solution KSE-100; performing samples for chemical analysis; cleaning of the ceramic tiles from pollution by means of compresses of distilled water and a cotton swab; cleaning ceramics from crosslinked organic contaminants by steam jet method; structural strengthening of ceramics with silicon-organic solution KSE-300; injection of cracks with mineral solution to prevent further destruction of the monument; lassing additions; elaboration of a reverse arrangement method of arranging floor tiles.
The process of structural strengthening lasted three times in two weeks. After total impregnation of the tiles with silicon-organic solution, they were covered with a film to allow deeper penetration of the substance and slow evaporation. This method allowed to evenly impregnate the ceramic tiles and prevent the formation of zones of film stress on the surface of the works. The main axis of the restoration program was the stabilization of the archeological site from further destruction. All found ceramic tiles had significant damage and cracks, and this is a source of destruction of the object. Therefore, during the restoration it was decided to inject the cracks with the author's mineral solution. The result of conservation measures - managed to stabilize the monument, stop its destruction and give the object an expositional appearance.
Ceramic tiles of the church floor are a valuable Ukrainian cultural heritage of the XII century. Their technology of execution and installation testifies to a high level of handicraft skill. The importance of ceramic floor tiles for Ukrainian science and art has led to a frugal approach to conservation, adherence to the vector of quality stabilization of ceramic and irrigated materials. The developed concept of museum arrangement of ceramic tiles will allow to continue historical and chemical-technological research.
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Shlyakhamy shtetliv, 2022. Busk. Map of historical and cultural heritage. [online] Available at: <https://shtetlroutes.eu/uk/busk-cultural-heritage-card/> [Accessed 27 May 2022]. [in Ukranian]
Galinfo, 2017. The most interesting finds of the chronicle Busk [online] Available at: <https://galinfo.com.ua/articles/naytsikavishi_znahidky_litopysnogo_buska... [Accessed 27 May 2022]. [in Ukranian]