Identification of the original chemical and mineralogical composition of decorative pieces from the Campoamor Theater, 1915, in Havana. Hypotheses for the restoration of decorative pieces on façades

The Campoamor Theater is an important part of the constructive and cultural history of Cuba. As a result of decades of neglect, decorative elements manufactured using mortar and fiber techniques are severely affected. The study aimed to identify the chemical and mineralogical composition of pigments, mortar and fibers using advanced techniques to propose hypotheses for the restoration of the decorative pieces on façades and the theater. The results obtained reflected a remarkable diversity of compounds associated with exposure to an urban-coastal environment, gold and silver elements in the sets and the presence of a natural lignocellulosic reinforcing fiber as a material to reinforce the mortar, reflecting the high symbolism and architectural value of the theater in the Havana culture of the twentieth century.