Identification of 17th-18th-Century Pictorial Materials in Church Mural Paintings in the Cuzco Area (Perú) Using Microinvasive Analytical Techniques

Eugenia Tomasini ¹, Milagros Córdova ², María Ana Castro ³

⁰CONICET: Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Cientificas y Tecnicas, Centro MATERIA, Av. Antártida Argentina s/n, 1104, Buenos Aires, ARGENTINA.

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May 20, 2025

View abstract on PubMed

Summary

This study analyzes 17th-18th century Peruvian church murals, revealing a diverse colonial pigment palette including hematite, carmine, copper greens, indigo, and smalt. Findings enhance understanding of pigment use and preservation for cultural heritage.

Area Of Science

Art Conservation Science
Materials Science
Archaeometry

Background

Colonial-era mural paintings in Peru offer insights into artistic practices.
Understanding pigment provenance and application is crucial for conservation.

Purpose Of The Study

To investigate the pigments and preparation layers of 17th-18th century murals in Marcapata and Canincunca churches.
To identify pigment materials and understand their application and degradation.

Main Methods

Microinvasive analysis using optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy with energy-dispersive spectroscopy (SEM-EDS), and Raman microspectroscopy.
Analysis of microsamples from mural paintings.

Main Results

Identified a gypsum/anhydrite preparation layer on adobe walls.
Revealed a palette including hematite (red), carmine (red), antlerite and posnjakite (green), indigo (blue), and smalt (blue).
Posnjakite and smalt were identified as significant components in Andean mural painting for the first time.

Conclusions

The study deepens understanding of colonial pigment selection, preparation, and degradation.
Interdisciplinary approaches are vital for advancing knowledge and preservation of Hispanic-American colonial art.
Findings contribute to developing sustainable conservation strategies for cultural heritage.

Keywords:

Micro-invasive analysis Posnjakite identification Raman spectroscopy SEM-EDS mapping Spanish American Colonial paintings