Vibrational spectroscopy for the study of Chilean cultural heritage

Abstract

Background: Natural and synthetic colouring products along with its associated supporting materials have been studied in several expressions of the Chilean cultural heritage using vibrational spectroscopy. These expressions include archaeological remains as well as works of art. Results: Among the materials studied so far we can count pigments found in archaeological sites from the north of Chile, in plaster (wall paintings) and in polychrome (beams), and dyes mainly related to added components on historic silk textiles. Identification of materials resulted to be relevant to know about Chilean culture through history. Conclusions: The vibrational knowledge obtained contributes to give solid data as a complement to the different information aspects collected by conservation professionals involved in the characterization and conservation procedures of cultural heritage and also it gives us the opportunity to share knowledge and to give value to objects that not always are of the public domain.