Published 1992 | Version v1
Journal article

Trace elements in white lead from sacral paintings of the fifteenth century determined by instrumental neutron activation analysis

  • 1. Institute of Nuclear Chemistry and Technology, Warsaw (Poland)
  • 2. Academy of Fine Arts, Cracow (Poland)

Description

The lead white has been used in painting since the middle ages both as a priming ground and pigment. Purity of the lead white is directly connected with the lead purification methods that have undergone considerable changes throughout centuries. Market progress in this respect was noted in the 19th century. That is why determination of such elements as Ag, Hg, Zn, Cu, Co, Cr, Ba and Sb in the lead white gives reliable information regarding the age of the painting in question. Analyses of samples of the lead taken from genuine 15th century paintings representing the so-called Krakowsko-Sadecka school were carried out using instrumental neutron activation analysis technique. The total of 32 elements were determined in those samples; also the detectability limit was determined in each case. (author). 10 refs, 7 figs, 2 tabs

Additional details

Publishing Information

Journal Title
Nukleonika
Journal Volume
37
Journal Issue
4
Journal Page Range
p. 29-42.
ISSN
0029-5922
CODEN
NUKLAS