Non-invasive pXRF technique for identifying pigments in multilayered artistic paintings

Rosario Blanc; Eloisa Manzano; José Luis Vílchez

doi:10.14568/cp41924

Authors

Rosario Blanc Research Group of Analytical Chemistry and Life Sciences, Department of Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Sciences, University of Granada, Avda. Fuentenueva s/n, 18071 Granada, Spain https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7820-9133
Eloisa Manzano Research Group of Analytical Chemistry and Life Sciences, Department of Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Sciences, University of Granada, Avda. Fuentenueva s/n, 18071 Granada, Spain https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4794-4661
José Luis Vílchez Research Group of Analytical Chemistry and Life Sciences, Department of Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Sciences, University of Granada, Avda. Fuentenueva s/n, 18071 Granada, Spain https://orcid.org/0000-0002-1653-6390

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.14568/cp41924

Keywords:

pXRF, Multi-layered model sample, Cinnabar, Azurite, Cadmium yellow, Lead white

Abstract

Portable X-ray fluorescence (pXRF) is a powerful analytical tool; however, its application to the analysis of complex pigment mixtures and multilayered artistic paintings − particularly ternary and quaternary systems distributed across one or more layers − still presents significant challenges. This study investigates the effectiveness of pXRF in detecting specific pigments, such as azurite, cinnabar, and lead white, within complex mixtures and overlapping stratigraphic layers, which are typical features of historical paintings and polychrome sculptures. Cadmium yellow, a pigment commonly used in later periods as overpainting, was also successfully identified, providing insights into the usefulness of pXRF for testing on historical artworks, even when dealing with later additions or restorations. The insights gained from these experimental replicas were subsequently applied to the analysis of two historical paintings selected as case studies, in which the target pigments were found to be heterogeneously distributed and mixed in varying proportions.

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