In 2015, a sample of thirteen terracotta figurines from the Musée Archéologique de l’Oise was studied and underwent a process of preservation-restoration. Unearthed on the site of Vendeuil-Caply in a layer of ash dating from the 2nd century, these figurines display rich and exceptionally well preserved polychrome decoration.

The cleaning and close observation of the surfaces have given a better knowledge of fabrication and decoration techniques. However, the alterations undergone by the colours following the fire in antiquity made the interpretations considerably more complex.

Traduction : Margaret & Jean-louis CADOUX