Lead isotope analysis of lead white as a tool for the dating Józef Szermentowski’s paintings

Abstract This paper presents the results of lead isotope composition analyses of lead white samples taken from paintings by Józef Szermentowski, a Polish painter. The examination of works by the artist revealed changes in the source of lead in the white paint samples that were associated with his activity in various artistic centres. This indicates that while working in Poland as well as in various regions of France, Szermentowski used lead white derived from a variety of geological deposits. Differences in the lead isotope composition may be a potential for broader future applications of this method in determining the date and place of execution of works whose precise provenance has not yet been established. The results also provide information on the availability of specific types of lead white in certain geographical areas, making a comparative reference framework for other paintings from this period and for the nineteenth-century lead white trade networks.