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The material that lies beneath the smooth shining surface of the stuccoes of the Serpotta family who used to work in Sicily from 1670 to 1730, has been thoroughly studied in previous papers, disclosing the deep, albeit empirical, knowledge of materials science that guided the artists in creating their masterpieces. In this work, attention is focused on the solid perspective and on the scenographic sculpture by Giacomo Serpotta, who is acknowledged as the leading exponent of the School. The study deals with some particular works of the artist, the “small-scaled plastic theatres”, so-called “teatrini”, which he made for the San Lorenzo Oratory in Palermo. On the basis of archival documents and previous analogical photogrammetric plotting, integrated with digital solutions and computer-based technologies, the study investigates and interprets the geometric-formal genesis of the examined works of art. Knowledge of the material composition of the stuccoes, along with the ability to accurately reproduce their shapes, give interesting possibilities to provide a complete reading of the works of art damaged by deterioration or theft.

In the particular field of the protection, conservation and valorization of Cultural Heritage, there are many scientific and technological advances implemented through financed projects between research institutions, universities and specializing companies in this area. On an operational level, to make this renewal effective, it is necessary to promote the formation of interdisciplinary teams of different professional skills, and to carry out tests and define methodologies and protocols. This study investigates these themes, focusing on the historic building “Grand Hotel Utveggio Castle”, which, by virtue of its chosen location and intended use, is exceptional for its technical and construction aspects and presents distinctive characteristics of place identity deeply connected with the city of Palermo. The project of knowledge and conservation aimed at acquiring and gaining experimental data, is directed at finding intervention methods for philological recovery, respecting the existing materials, preserving the dimensions of the structural parts and identifying the physical-mechanical compatibility between the historical materials and those of new generation.