Technical research, conservation and restoration of a lacquer mask unearthed from the M102 Han tomb at Yaozhuang, Yangzhou
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(1. Yangzhou Museum, Yangzhou 225125, China;2. Jingzhou Conservation Center, Jingzhou 434020, China;3. The Palace Museum, Beijing 100009, China)

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    Abstract:

    In 1985, Yangzhou Museum excavated a lacquer mask with cloud and auspicious animal patterns from the female coffin of the M102 Han tomb at Yaozhuang, Yangzhou. The lacquer mask was made using a Mujiazhu core-making method. The process includes making the core with Cotinus coggygria, plastering, applying two layers of primer, applying black brown and red finish on the surface, and depicting the decorative layer. According to the result of pyrolysis-gas chromatography/mass spectrometry, both sides of the lacquer film contained Chinese lacquer and dry oil. Using near-infrared spectrometry combined with chemical stoichiometry, it was determined that the dry weight ratio of lacquer to dry oil was 71.5%∶28.5% for the outer black brown lacquer film, and that for the inner red lacquer film was 66.7%∶33.3%. The nails embedded on the lacquer mask were made of a bronze alloy, and their surface was gilt. However, due to the influence of the burial environment, the Au contents of copper ornaments at different parts were different. Based on scientific understanding of the material, process, and diseases of the lacquer mask, a scientific conservation and restoration route was formulated. After comprehensive cleaning, traditional materials and techniques were used for core, lacquer film and paint restoration, to recover the integrity of this lacquer mask to the greatest extent and to achieve satisfactory results. The lacquer mask has been put into exhibition, and the overall effect is good.

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History
  • Received:March 04,2024
  • Revised:June 10,2024
  • Adopted:
  • Online: June 30,2025
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