Frank Laboratory of Neutron Physics

Joint Laboratory Seminar

Leader – Shvetsov V.N.

Date and Time: Thursday, 16 December 2021, at 11:00 AM

Venue: Online seminar on Webex, Frank Laboratory of Neutron Physics

Information about seminar and link to join

Seminar topic: “The system of experimental and theoretical methods for studying physical and chemical properties and processes of medieval fresco painting”

Speakers: Olga Philippova, Andrey Dmitriev

Abstract:

The Group of Neutron Activation Analysis FLNP carries out complex research of fresco paintings from the UNESCO World Heritage List architectural monuments. Unique pre-Mongolian 12th century frescoes from St. George Cathedral of Yuryev Monastery (Veliky Novgorod) and Christ’s Transfiguration Cathedral of Mirozhsky Monastery (Pskov), as well as 16th century frescoes from Smolensk Cathedral of Novodevichy Convent (Moscow) were studied. Works are performed in collaboration with organizations from the Ministry of Culture of the Russian Federation – State Institute for Art Studies and Interregional Agency for Scientific Restoration of Works of Art.
For in situ elemental composition determination X-ray fluorescence analysis is used. In laboratory – for the first time in Russia – classical neutron activation and prompt gamma activation analysis were used. Molecular and mineral composition is analyzed using infrared spectroscopy. Stratigraphy and chemical microanalysis are additional methods. The sets of pigments used for painting, the presence/absence and compositions of organic binders, as well as the compositions of plaster bases have been determined. The data obtained are of significant interest to domain experts: restorers (for planning and carrying out restoration and conservation works) and art historians (for solving a wide range of problems, first of all, attribution, determination of painting technique, digital reconstruction of fresco painting fragments).

12th century fresco of St. George from St. George Cathedral of Yuryev Monastery: view at the present time (left) and the possible original coloration (right)