Modern and ancient terra cotta samples were impregnated with vinyl acetate monomer (B.P. 73°C) at 20°C in an inert gas atmosphere. Polymerization was accomplished by gamma ray radiation. The modern terra cottas showed deep cracks on the surface, possibly originating in internal stresses; the ancient fragments do not show any changes in appearance. Modern and ancient terra cottas were impregnated with styrene and styrene-polyester mixtures, and polymerized with gamma radiation. No changes in surface appearance were noted. Conclusion: The combination of ancient terra cottas and polymers is possible without serious limitations or insurmountable difficulties. Differences in the absorption of vinyl acetate, styrene, or styrene-polyester are small.