Abstract
<jats:p>This volume gathers the proceedings of study sessions held in Chieti in 2019 for the 60th anniversary of the “National Archaeological Museum of Abruzzo and Molise,” now part of the “National Archaeological Museums of Chieti.” Organized with the University of Chieti-Pescara, the sessions focused on pre-Roman sculpture, with one meeting on “Materials and Sculptural Techniques” and another on “Speaking Images,” which also addressed epigraphic issues. The events brought together diverse expertise, updating research perspectives not only for the central Adriatic area but also for Etruscan and Italic cultures. Contributions from Italian and international specialists are presented in a single volume, grouped by chronological order and thematic focus. The book offers a fresh overview of traditional techniques and tools, the historical and archaeological context of sculptures and monuments, recent discoveries, and new research directions, including archaeometric studies and virtual reconstructions. Topics include the sculptures of Mont’e Prama, the warrior of Numana, funerary sculptures from pre-Roman Abruzzo (like the warrior of Capestrano), the sculptural and epigraphic monuments of Penna Sant’Andrea, and Etruscan works such as the Chiusi sphinxes, the Lattanzi Tomb sculptures from Norchia, Hellenistic urn carving techniques, and Samnite epigraphic practices. Overall, the volume deepens our understanding of pre-Roman cultural heritage through the study of techniques, materials, models, and meanings in sculpture.</jats:p>