A multi-analytical investigation of different gilding techniques in the mural painting of the Yuan Dynasty (A.D. 1271-1368)

Various gilding techniques were performed in ancient wall paintings, however, the distinctions of these techniques have not been thoroughly investigated and revealed. Being an outstanding representative temple mural of the Yuan Dynasty, Yongle Palace mural was made with sophisticated decoration crafts, which offers great opportunities for exploring the characteristics of gilding techniques. This work presents a comprehensive investigation of different gilding techniques used in Yongle Palace mural by applying digital microscopy, SEM-EDS, XRD, XRF, Raman, FT-IR, and THM-Py-GC/MS, to characterize the materials, and further clarified the technical distinctions. The traits of these crafts, including the distinctive multi-layer structure, application of different pigments and binders, were determined to obtain a better understanding of the traditional gilding techniques in mural paintings. These results could bring new insights into Yongle Palace mural, and reveal valuable information of gilding crafts in the Yuan Dynasty. It would further serve as a reference for conservation and restoration works.