Promises of results and interdisciplinary expectations in the characterization of colonial organic art materials

Abstract

This paper presents some reflections and analytical results related with the practice of Conservation Science and Archeometry, for organic material analysis of cultural objects, especially in our local reality. The practice of the conservation scientist as analyst is discussed, in relation with other professionals of cultural heritage, as well as the concepts of multi, inter and trans- discipline, to propose a better frame for our work.

The analytical part discusses the identification techniques most often used for organic material (Gas Chromatography, IR Spectroscopy, Cross Sections), and the expectations and promises of results that emerge from them considering two inherent problems of cultural materials: its aging and its representativity. As a case study, we discuss four samples coming from paintings of the Serie Grande de Santa Teresa (Cusco, 1690-1700) which are have been analyzed by Gas Chromatography. Results, difficulties of interpretation, sampling, high associated costs, and the kind and quality of the obtained information, are relevant aspects to consider in order to evaluate its contribution to the common historical/heritage field, and how to reinsert that information in the multi/inter/transdisciplinary dialogue.