Contribution to the Understanding of Mural Painting Techniques of Jinpari Tomb No. 4 of the Complex of Koguryo Tombs, World Heritage

Abstract

In this study, we have analyzed the chemical components and crystal structures of minerals found in the Jinpari Tomb No. 4 mural paintings, which has allowed us to identify component materials comprising each layer. During the analysis of the painting layer, the green material was identified as malachite. The use of malachite is supported by the high Cu content, the flower-shaped crystals in the microstructures of the painting layer, and the XRD identification results. The ground layer consists of layers of panel-shaped particles. The main component materials were Ca, Al, Si, K, Mg, and Fe, which are usually found in earthen materials. The earthen layer showed high peaks of silicon oxide and calcium carbonate, along with potassium aluminum silicate. The findings indicate quartz, limestone, and mica. The lime layer showed the diffraction patterns corresponding to calcium carbonate, which indicates the use of limestone. The earthen layer consists of aggregated layers of thin panel-shaped structures, with small particles attached around the structures. The lime layer showed aggregations of multi-angle panel-shaped structures and pillar-shaped structures of various types. The analysis has allowed us to shed light on the techniques used in the Jinpari Tomb No. 4 mural paintings.