A Study on the Conservation and Management of the Painting of Shamanistic Spirits in Chiseonggwang Buddha

Abstract

This study presents a method for conserving shamanistic spirits in Chiseonggwang Buddha. Scientific investigation has revealed that these spirits have been subject to degeneration as a result of severe exfoliation and pollution. The materials and preservation treatment techniques used in create these shamanistic spirits were identified through visual inspection and using appropriate scientific equipment. The different types of background paper, background material, and color pigments used in create the shamanistic spirits were analyzed using a colorimeter, stereoscopic microscope, and SEM-EDS techniques. The analysis revealed that the pulp paper was used as the background and synthetic fiber polyester as the background material. In addition, the study of the pigment revealed that the color components were all synthetic, except for red lead [Pb<sub>3</sub>O<sub>4</sub>] and oyster shell white [CaCO<sub>3</sub>]. Moreover, it was confirmed that the green pigment, identified as emerald green [Cu(C<sub>2</sub>H<sub>3</sub>O<sub>2</sub>)<sub>2</sub>.3Cu(AsO<sub>2</sub>)<sub>2</sub>], was a major component of shamanistic spirits in the late 19th century. The shamanistic spirits in Chiseonggwang Buddha were conserved by identifying raw materials and pigments through this detailed analysis.