The unambiguous and ultrasensitive identification of dyes and pigments is exceedingly important for art conservation. Although current technology provides conservators with the ability to identify inorganic colorants, the detection of organic materials – those most prone to fading and decomposition – remains challenging. In an effort to improve current scientific methodologies for colorant identification and to enhance the research experience of undergraduate students at the College of William and Mary, a research collaboration with Colonial Williamsburg was established. In this collaboration, we have developed new surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) strategies for the identification of fugitive organic pigments in historic oil paintings. Using various SERS materials and methods, we examined the use of various organic colorants including carmine lake, indigo, Reseda lake, and mauveine in paintings from the 18th- and 19th- century. One case study of particular interest is the SERS-based identification of an early synthetic pigment in the Miracle of the Slave, a recent acquisition by the Muscarelle Museum of Art that has been re-attributed to Paul Cézanne. Microscopic samples from the red-purple turban detail exhibited strong SERS peaks at 1529, 1450, 1340, 1193, 1183, 1141, 1004, 830, and 679 cm-1, consistent with the presence of mauveine or similar “coal tar” derivative. In addition to advancing scientific objectives, this collaboration provides a unique opportunity for students to experience “behind the scenes” of the conservation world. This presentation will focus on the research and educational outcomes of this collaboration.

Undergraduate research at the interface of analytical chemistry and art conservation: SERS Studies of organic pigments in oil paintings

254th National Meeting (2017)

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.