Scientific Analysis of Pigments in 20th Century Paintings for Selected Historical Churches of the Bohol, Philippines

Abstract

Through a combination of scientific analytical methods, the coloring materials used in 20th century paintings in historical churches of Baclayon, Dauis and Loay, which are municipalities in Bohol, Philippines, were studied. Inorganic pigments were identified using SEM-EDS and XRD. Iron-based pigments were commonly found in the paintings, yielding dark yellow and brown colors. Zinc oxide was identified as the white pigment in the ceiling paintings of Dauis Church and Loay Church, while titanium dioxide was detected in the column painting in Baclayon Church. Organic analysis showed the presence of Pigment Yellow 3, a synthetic organic pigment. Paint layers, as well as other components of the samples such as grounds and metal leaves, were examined microscopically. It was observed that different types of grounds were applied on different types of surfaces. Moreover, organic pigments were found in combination with white extender materials. Microscopic examination also revealed alterations in the artworks, such as the overpaint layer found in the samples from Baclayon Church cornice and the imitation metal leaf layers applied over the original gilt surface in the Loay Church retablo.