Application of Micro-Raman Spectroscopy for Identifying Pigments in Qajar Papier-Mache Penboxes (Qalamdan)

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Department of Conservation and Archaeometry, Faculty of Cultural Materials Conservation, Tabriz Islamic Art University, P.O. Box: 15385-4567, Tabriz, Iran

2 B.A. in conservation and restoration of cultural properties, Faculty of Cultural Materials Conservation, Tabriz Islamic Art University, P.O. Box: 15385-4567, Tabriz, Iran

Abstract

This research aims to study two Qajar papier-mache penboxes to identify the pigments used in their decoration. Micro-Raman spectroscopy was employed with three laser-excitation wavelengths of 457, 532, and 785 nm to identify these pigments. Additionally, due to weak Raman scattering in one of the pigments, reflectance microspectrophotometry was utilized. The results of this study demonstrated that these penboxes, which were coated with oil-resin varnish (Kaman-oil), used ultramarine blue, chrome green (mixture of lead chromate and a blue pigment), red lead, carbon black, and cochineal pigments for decoration. Furthermore, evidence of using white lead, especially in the highlighted areas for attaching golden leaf, was found. All the identified pigments are commonly found in Iranian art and the Qajar period, and this study can greatly contribute to understanding their application in artistic decorations and cultural heritage. Conversely, including chrome green in one penbox and the ornamental technique attributed to Abu-Talib Modaresi Hamadani in the other suggests that both works were likely created after the mid-19th century.

Keywords

Main Subjects

References

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