Abstract:
Chinese painted enamels are studied in this thesis with the goal of improving their
conservation. To do this the material was studied through elemental analysis
using two X-ray Fluorescence techniques and Environmental Scanning Electron
Microscopy coupled with Energy Dispersive X-ray spectrometry. All three
techniques used in this study are non-destructive. The analytical sample set
includes 131 examples dating from the inception of the technique in the early 18th
century to modern production in the 21st century.
Characterisation is used in this thesis to compare the compositions of each
Chinese painted enamel colour to related artistic traditions including Chinese
glass, cloisonné, overglaze enamels on porcelain, Limoges painted enamels and
a late 17th century German painted enamel. Research on related materials was
done with the aim of identifying the technological predecessors and exchanges
for each colour in the palette. The results illuminate complexity in the
development of the technique, which draws heavily on both Chinese and
European technology.
Manufacturing techniques, construction and degradation are documented
through examination of artworks in museum collections, providing insight on the
technical art history of the medium and its inherent vulnerabilities. Observations
on condition have been used to recognise trends in degradation and link them to
specific agents of decay and innate weaknesses from manufacturing. The results
show that Chinese painted enamels are particularly vulnerable to physical force
which occurs during handling and inappropriate support while on display or in
storage. To mitigate future damage, recommendations on environmental
conditions are made regarding temperature, humidity, and light levels.