Anastylosis, Lacunae, and ‘Image Reintegration’ of Stone Artifacts Using Cementitious Mortars, with Particular Attention to the Roman Forum

This study aims to address the theme of material reintegration and the image of the work, whether artistic or architectural, specifically in the case of indirect anastylosis and the reassembly and partial reconstruction of stone elements. Starting with an overview at both the international and national levels, a brief case study will be presented on the main variants employed in the past and still used today in the reintegration of stone structures: cases where the material used is similar to the original; and cases where the choice falls on the use of materials different from the original. ‚e study will focus particularly on the second type of interventions and the extensive case studies provided by the use of cementitious materials in the Roman context (Roman Forum and Imperial Fora) from the early 19th century to the present. In addition to practical considerations, some theoretical reflections will be made, as the first depend on the latter. ‚e addition of new material always entails the difficult issue of aesthetic presentation and harmonization with the existing structure, the failure to resolve which could result in harm to the image or loss of the authenticity of the work