An Analysis Study of Wall Painting Pigment Excavated at Iksan Jeseoksaji Dumpsite

Abstract

The fragments of a wall painting excavated from among the historical remains of Jeseoksa Temple in Iksan. The extent of the damage to the fragments was examined and an analysis of the components of the pigment was conducted. The results of the component analysis of the pigment confirmed that the white pigment consisted of alkali feldspar and mullite. Although the results of the visual inspection revealed differences in color in the red and black pigments, the main component of the two colors was confirmed to be iron oxide. Red and black pigments are found at the same position. Although differences of color is obvious, those are identified as hematite and magnetite of oxidized steel’s affiliation. It is judged that Differences of ingredients happened by external environment’s factors.