Abstract
In this study, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and luminescence imaging were used to identify the coatings of seven Persian lacquer papier mache penboxes, of which two were contemporary, one was from the Pahlavi era, and four belonged to the Qajar era. First, FTIR was used to identify the nature of the coating. Then, UV-induced visible luminescence imaging at the spectral ranges of 420–680 nm (UVL), 425–495 nm (UVIBL), and 615–645 nm (UVIRL) was performed for further examination. The FTIR results showed that the coatings were made of alkyd resin, oil-resin varnish (Kaman oil), and shellac. In UV-induced visible luminescence images, synthetic alkyd resin showed no fluorescence, which made it distinguishable from the natural organic coatings. While it is slightly challenging to differentiate Kaman oil from shellac based on FTIR results, these two coatings can be easily distinguished by their fluorescence in UVL and UVIBL images. The results suggest that the combined use of spectroscopy and spectral imaging methods can provide substantial information about the organic coatings of historical objects.
Highlights
Persian lacquer objects, especially penboxes (Qalmadan in Persian), are among valuablePersian historical and artistic objects that have survived in significant numbers from multiple historical periods
Until the 18th century, the coating used in the majority of Persian lacquer w5orks was Kaman oil [39,40]
The results of Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) spectroscopy showed the use of alkyd resins, Kaman oil, and shellac in the coatings
Summary
Persian historical and artistic objects that have survived in significant numbers from multiple historical periods Despite their global renown as lacquer art, as some researchers have pointed out, these lacquerwares are essentially painted surfaces that are coated with a protective oil or resin [1,2]. This veneer, generally referred to as “Kaman oil”, used to be prepared by mixing a terpenoid resin, typically sandarac, with linseed oil at boiling temperature. The use of this coating in Persian artworks dates back to at least the 11th century. While the process of making papier mache penboxes has not changed much over these centuries, the coatings applied to these objects have changed depending on circumstances [10]
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