Palaeoproteomic Profiling of Conservation Layers on a 14th Century Italian Wall Painting. Issue 25 (26th April 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Mackie, Meaghan; Rüther, Patrick; Samodova, Diana; Di Gianvincenzo, Fabiana; Granzotto, Clara; Lyon, David; Peggie, David A.; Howard, Helen; Harrison, Lynne; Jensen, Lars Juhl; Olsen, Jesper V.; Cappellini, Enrico
• Is Part Of: Angewandte Chemie international edition. Volume 57:Issue 25(2018)
• Page Start: 7369
• Page End: 7374
• Publication Date: 2018-04-26
• Subjects: conservation science -- cultural heritage -- mass spectrometry -- post-translational modifications -- proteomics; Chemistry -- Periodicals; 540
• DOI: 10.1002/anie.201713020
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1433-7851

Abstract

Abstract: Ahead of display, a non‐original layer was observed on the surface of a fragment of a wall painting by Ambrogio Lorenzetti (active 1319, died 1348/9). FTIR analysis suggested proteinaceous content. Mass spectrometry was used to better characterise this layer and revealed two protein components: sheep and cow glue and chicken and duck egg white. Analysis of post‐translational modifications detected several photo‐oxidation products, which suggest that the egg experienced prolonged exposure to UV light and was likely applied long before the glue layer. Additionally, glycation products detected may indicate naturally occurring glycoprotein degradation or reaction with a carbohydrate material such as starch, identified by ATR‐FTIR in a cross‐section of a sample taken from the painting. Palaeoproteomics is shown to provide detailed characterisation of organic layers associated with mural paintings and therefore aids reconstruction of the conservation history of these objects. Abstract : Tandem mass spectrometry was used to analyse a non‐original proteinaceous layer on the surface of a medieval wall painting from Siena, Italy. Sheep and cow glue and chicken and duck egg white proteins were identified. Photo‐oxidation products detected in the egg white layer indicate it is probably a glair that experienced prolonged exposure to UV light. Palaeoproteomics is shown to aid reconstruction of the conservation history of cultural heritage objects.