An experimental methodology for studying the penetration of adhesives into painted textiles with fluorescent labelling and cross- sections: a case study in thangka painting samples

Abstract

The current dissertation examines labelled Isinglass and funori with 5-DTAF
[5-(4,6-Dichlorotriazinyl)aminofluorescein] after application on Tibetan
thangka painting samples, with fluorescent light microscopy.
Different types of preparation were tested included samples with added iron
red in the pigmentation and/or starch paste for sizing the ground fabric. This
aimed in finding the most appropriate methodology for creating samples with
low autofluorescence of the samples. Since, samples observed embedded in
cross-section, materials and techniques of coss-sectioning was reviewed and
evaluated for examination with fluorescent microscopy
This study was conducted in order to provide an experimental methodology
and guidelines for preparing labelled adhesives and painted textiles samples,
for the study of their penetration.
The conclusions of this dissertation can be used by any researcher in order to
advance the research about adhesives’ penetration, and potentially help
conservators decide about the proper consolidation practices for painted
textiles.