ARCHAEOMETRIC STUDY OF A POLYCHROME WOODEN COFFIN FROM 26TH DYNASTY-EGYPT

Abstract

This study focuses on a multi-analytical method to identify the pigments, ground layer, and previous
restoration materials used on a polychrome wooden coffin (Late Period) from Saqqara, Egypt. It utilized
technical imaging, optical microscopy, scanning electron microscope attached to X-ray dispersion unit, X-ray
diffraction, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The results showed the use of hematite and
cinnabar for the red painted layers, Egyptian blue for the blue painted layer, yellow ochre for the yellow
painted layer, Atacamite and Paratacamite for the green painted layer and carbon for black painted layer.
The ground layer was calcium carbonate. The original binding medium was animal glue, while the previous
consolidation materials were poly vinyl acetate (PVAC) and beeswax.