Pigments—Arsenic-based yellows and reds

Abstract

This review offers an update on arsenic-bearing minerals and pigments with the aim of serving as a guide for the study of Cultural Heritage materials in which these materials can be found. The different As-bearing mineral phases (realgar, pararealgar, orpiment, anorpiment, alacranite, dimorphite, bonazziite, uzonite, wakabayashilite, duranusite, arsenolite and claudetite) and some of their light-induced products are examined. The occurrence of As-sulfides and their trade, use, alteration and degradation are also reviewed. Finally, the analytical techniques commonly used for the identification of arsenic-containing pigments are discussed. The manuscript concludes with a good-practice guide and a summary of key concepts for use by those working in the field of cultural heritage.