Nondestructive analysis of architectural decorative patterns in Prince Kung’s Palace by Raman and XRF

Abstract This study used portable Raman spectroscopy and X-ray fluorescence to non-destructively analyze pigments in the architectural decorative patterns of Prince Kung’s Palace, Beijing. Focusing on eight representative patterns, it identified a complex palette of pigments, including historical mineral, modern synthetic, and plant-derived ones. The mineral pigments identified are cinnabar, red lead, hematite, orpiment, lead white, chalk, carbon black, azurite, and atacamite. Synthetic pigments include Hansa red, chrome yellow, titanium white, Prussian blue, ultramarine blue, phthalocyanine blue, emerald green, and phthalocyanine green. Indigo was found in certain areas. Degradation products such as lead sulfate and gypsum were also detected. The analysis suggests multiple creation periods for the patterns, providing evidence of historical restorations. Some patterns date to around the 45th year of the Qianlong period, while others might be from the Republic of China period (1912–1949 CE). This research offers insights into the conservation and restoration of the decorative patterns.