Non-artistic materials in artistic works by David Lynch: Multidisciplinary approach

摘要

Four paintings of David Lynch’s cycle from the period 1996-2001 were investigated in order to propose properconservation treatment.Non invasive elemental analyses with portable XRF indicated traditional pigments like cadmium red, iron black, ivoryblack. The main material of unknown origin used as paint contained significant amounts of alumina, magnesium andadditions of silica and iron. SEM-EDX and FTIR analyses conducted on samples enabled further recognition.Material used as paint was chlorinated polyethylene close to the industrial product Agitan P 813. Coating used instead oftypical artists’ varnishes proved to be alkyd resin. In carpenters’ glue used by artist for “consolidation” repairs polyvinylchloride was detected as the main component. For the primer acrylic medium with chalk and titanium white was used.Artist was insisted to help to identify unexpected non-traditional materials. He revealed that elastomeric Taylor 2080Adhesive for gluing carpets was executed as paint and for the coating - Man O’War Marine Spar Varnish for gardenwooden furniture of McCloskey company. The amorphous silica indicated by the lacquer’s producer as ingredient wasidentified and visualized in the SEM-EDX. Consolidating adhesive was the Titebond III Ultimate Wood.Investigation revealed wide use of non-artistic materials by David Lynch. Recognized materials enabled to proposemodified cleaning treatment based on buffered water solution of controllable pH (5) and conductivity (5,5 mS) resultingin successful cleaning of the works.Paper is a case study of material recognition of technique of contemporary works of art of basic importance to proposeits proper conservation treatment.