Le lamine metalliche utilizzate nella decorazione dei dipinti murali giotteschi = Metal leaves utilized for decoration of Giotto's mural paintings [Metallic leaf used in the decoration of Giotto's wall paintings]

Presents the results of the analyses made on the metal leaf used by Giotto on the wall paintings in the Scrovegni Chapel in Padua, Italy. The analyses were carried out using a portable x-ray fluorescence device. Twenty-three micro-fragments were also collected and examined by optical microscopy as well as with a scanning electron microscope equipped with an energy dispersive x-ray spectrometer. Nine samples in powder form were analysed using x-ray diffraction. The results of all the analyses are provided in a detailed series of tables. The results showed that four different types of metal leaf were used in the Scrovegni Chapel: gold, golden tin, tin, and gold/silver. The tables give information on the type and location of the sample, the type of analysis used on the sample, the visual appearance of the sample, and its condition. Decorative finishing on the gold leaf was done with copper-based pigments, red lake (carmine), and vine black. There is occasional presence of titanium, mostly likely used during modern day restoration treatments.