The article presents a survey, nearing completion (1988) at the University of Leicester (UK), aimed at producing a database of information on the materials and technology of Romano-British wallplaster, mortar and painting. This data is to be compared with the advice of the classical writers Vitruvius and Pliny. Preliminary results of research are presented: materials used, techniques, use of plaster and tempera, pigments. 4 bibliographic references. Micrographs.