Multi-analytical investigation into the materials and techniques of paintings on Northern Wei Dynasty (398–494 CE) coffin planks excavated from Shanxi, China

This study combined various non-invasive and micro-invasive analytical techniques to investigate the production process of coffin plank paintings excavated from a Northern Wei tomb. Fiber-optic reflectance spectroscopy, portable Raman spectroscopy, and portable X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy were used in situ. Micro-samples were analyzed through optical microscopy, confocal micro-Raman spectroscopy, and scanning electron microscopy-energy dispersive spectroscopy. Results showed the use of cinnabar (red), pararealgar (yellow), an indigo and orpiment mixture (green), an indigo and lead white mixture (blue), gypsum (white), and carbon black (black). The study provides a scientific basis for conservation and restoration and new information for research on Northern Wei art history.

Zhiyong Guo, Shiqi Cai, Zhanyun Zhu, Yaling Qin, Xiuya Yao, Jia Wang, Wenxiao Jin, Meifeng Shi, Lanfang Li, Junchang Yang, Liu Liu