Date of Award
9-2025
Access Control
Open Access
Degree Name
Conservation of Art and Cultural Heritage and Conservation Science and Imaging , M.A./M.S.
Department
Art Conservation Department
Advisor
Fiona Beckett
Advisor
Emily Hamilton
Department Home page
https://artconservation.buffalostate.edu/
First Reader
Jiuan Jiuan Chen
Second Reader
Patrick Ravines
Third Reader
Dr. Rebecca Ploeger
Abstract
This project presents a detailed technical study of a contemporary Vietnamese lacquer painting Leisure Time by artist Tim Nguyen, with the aim of investigating its material composition and understanding the cause of its deterioration. The painting was examined using a range of techniques, including multimodal imaging and scientific analyses such as X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy (XRF), scanning electron microscopy/energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM/EDS), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Raman spectroscopy, and pyrolysis-gas chromatography-mass spectrometry with thermally assisted hydrolysis and methylation (TMAH-Py-GC/MS), a method developed by the Getty Conservation Institute. Optical microscopy and cross-section analysis were also carried out. The main objective was to carry out a thorough analysis to determine what led to the color change observed in the painting, identify contributing material factors, and explore options for conservation and preventive care from both scientific and artist-based perspectives. A comparative study between this painting and traditional lacquer works in the department was also conducted to examine differences in materials and methods. A series of mockups made by artist Lê Minh Tâm were sent to Buffalo to perform accelerated aging to recreate the phenomenon. The results identified the deterioration of a yellow pigment, pararealgar, and the corrosion of silver gilding/pigments, as the primary cause of the dramatic color change observed in the painting.
Recommended Citation
Do, Vu Bac, "The Technical Study of a Contemporary Vietnamese Lacquer Painting by Artist Tim Nguyen" (2025). Art Conservation Master's Projects. 100.
https://digitalcommons.buffalostate.edu/art_con_projects/100
Included in
Art and Materials Conservation Commons, Fine Arts Commons, Painting Commons, Photography Commons
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