Temperature resolved reproduction of medieval luster

Abstract

Luster is a golden metallic-like decoration produced on glazed ceramics since early Islamic times (Iraq, 9th AD). Luster is obtained by the reaction of a luster paint and the glaze surface over which it is applied. A temperature-resolved XRD experiment was designed to study the high temperature reactions in the luster paint while the luster layer is formed. The luster paint composition has been made based on the original luster paints found during the excavation of the 13th AD workshop site at Paterna (Valencia).

The sulfo-reducing atmosphere created during the decomposition of cinnabar promotes the reduction of Cu2+ containing compounds to Cu+ and the presence of Hg vapours delays the precipitation of metal silver. Moreover, evidence of the formation of a melt in which the copper and silver-containing compounds dissolve has also been obtained.

The thickness of the luster paint applied results in the formation of luster layers of different hues and colours. The use of a mixture of copper and silver paint results in the formation of dark-brown luster layer similar to the ones produced in early Islamic times in Iraq and showed also the characteristic blue iridescences