infocus #3 September 2006 Microscopy and Archival Research

Interpreting results within the context of historical records and traditional practice

DOI: 10.22443/rms.inf.1.10

The analysis of paint samples is an invaluable tool in the armoury of historic paint research. However, powerful as the techniques of pigment, cross-sectional and instrumental analysis may be, they cannot always provide complete answers to the questions posed. Historical records relating to specific buildings and projects, as well as painters’ manuals recording traditional painting techniques can offer clues which are vital to solving analysis puzzles. Historical text records which are particular to buildings and/or paintings can provide definitive dates for paint schemes which could otherwise only be dated approximately if key ‘marker’ pigments with known dates of
introduction or obsolescence are present. Reference sources may be useful in suggesting or guiding proposed research and conversely, sample analysis can lead to a reassessment of archive records and a refinement of their interpretation.

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Author

Jane Davies

Conservationist, Jane Davies Conservation

Jane Davies has a Masters Degree in the Conservation of Fine Art and worked after graduation for a large conservation company, specialising in the conservation of architectural surface finishes, paint and wall paintings. Developing her interest in artists’ materials and techniques, she undertook a research degree with the Victoria and Albert Museum/Royal College of Art Conservation Course examining the physical constituents of English Baroque wall paintings. Following successful completion of her thesis, Jane Davies worked at the English Heritage Conservation Studio. She set up as an independent consultant in 1996 to provide research services into decorative architectural plasters, paints and wall paintings, and has successfully completed projects for a broad range of clients, including the National Trust, English Heritage, national museums, Cathedrals and local authorities.

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