The article describes the analysis, identification, and consolidation of friable pigments on the surface of prehistoric ceramic sherds from the Near East. Light microscopy (polarized), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and x-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis were used for characterization and identification purposes. A cleaning method using a sequestering agent was developed to allow for clearer XRD analysis results. Several types of thermoplastic resins were tested as consolidants. Acryloid B-72 (Rohm and Haas) was chosen for its fast drying time, ease of application, stability, and adhesive properties in low concentration solutions. -- AATA