Spectrochemical Characterization of Red Pigments Used in Classic Period Maya Funerary Practices

We studied the composition, colour chromaticity and form of application of red pigments in human bone samples from seven Classic period Lowland Maya sites. The samples were analysed by X‐ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X‐ray energy‐dispersive spectroscopy (EDS). Colour was me...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Archaeometry 2015-12, Vol.57 (6), p.1045-1059
Main Authors: Quintana, P., Tiesler, V., Conde, M., Trejo-tzab, R., Bolio, C., Alvarado-gil, J. J., Aguilar, D.
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
bone remains
cinnabar
colorimetry
hematite
Maya
Pigments
reflectance spectroscopy
Scanning electron microscopy
SEM
Spectrum analysis
XRD
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Summary:We studied the composition, colour chromaticity and form of application of red pigments in human bone samples from seven Classic period Lowland Maya sites. The samples were analysed by X‐ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X‐ray energy‐dispersive spectroscopy (EDS). Colour was measured using conventional colour identification standards (Munsell) and reflectance spectroscopy. Cinnabar and hematite were identified as the pigments used. We conclude that the reflectance method has advantages over conventional visual results, as it provides precise, objective and quantifiable optical data to distinguish the chromaticity, colour saturation and brightness of the pigments.
ISSN:0003-813X
1475-4754
DOI:10.1111/arcm.12144