Characterization of Asian and European Lacquers

New protocols for sampling individual lacquer layers and detecting organic materials of Asian and European lacquers

Project Details

Two people with eyeglasses on examine an ornate wooden cabinet with a flashlight

About

Goal

Compositional and technological differences between Asian and European lacquers affect how they age and their long-term stability. Scientific analysis could provide conservators with vital information about the composition and condition of lacquer layers, aiding in development of appropriate conservation treatments.

This project aims to develop a methodology for sampling and analysis of the organic components of Asian and European lacquers that improves upon existing techniques both in terms of sensitivity and range of detectable compounds.