4. Pigments and paints

4.1 Pigment use and analysis

Pigments form an essential family of materials in the heritage sector. A pigment is a colored substance of natural or artificial origin, derived from a mineral and/or organic source. It generally takes the form of a more or less finely ground powder. Pigment and paint are often associated with easel paintings or murals. However, pigments can also be found in many other contexts. They can be applied to wooden or marble sculptures, and decorate the surface of certain types of glass. They are also found in illuminations, cosmetics and on mummy wrappings. Most of the examples presented below refer to pigments used in wall or easel painting. Analytical issues mainly concern the origin of the pigment (natural or synthetic, geographical traceability, physical...