On-site micro-XRF mapping of enameled porcelain paintings and sculpture. First demonstration

We present the first study of painted enameled ceramics with a mobile micro-XRF (MA-XRF) scanning device at the Cité de la Ceramique, Sèvres on 18th to 20th century soft- and hard-paste palettes, 2D or 3D, Castel Durante 16th century majolica, two 19th century porcelain reproducing paintings by W. Bouguereau and J.-E. Aubert and a set combining a porcelain figurine and flowers mounted with gilded bronze. Major elements (Si, Ca, K, Pb for enamels and porcelain body, Cu, Zn, Au, Hg for fire gildings and gilded bronze) and many minor elements, coloring agents (Fe, Co, Mn, Cu, Cr, Ni, Sb, U, Au, Pt, Y, Ta), opacifier (As, Sn, Zn) or impurities (Ba, Ti, Bi, Rb, Sr, Zr, Y, Ta, Ga, Cl) are identified and mapped. The comparison of images obtained for different transitions of the same element provides stratigraphic information. Restorations and damage are highlighted. •First on-site study of glazed/painted enamels by XRF mapping.•The high resolution allows precise analysis of the heterogeneity of paint touches.•Transitions at different energies visualize the stratigraphy in a non-invasive way.•2D distribution of coloring agents and impurities (e.g. gold nanoparticles) is imaged.