This study focuses on the analytical characterization of 20 academic nude paintings from the Faculty of Fine Arts of the University of Lisbon, created between 1899 and 1918. The research combines in situ non-invasive methods such as infrared reflectography, radiography, and EDXRF with laboratory microanalytical techniques including micro-Raman, micro-FTIR, and SEM-EDS. By analysing these paintings, insights into the artistic practices of the late 19th and early 20th centuries at the Academy of Fine Arts of Lisbon are provided.
The study involved the examination of painting materials and pigments used in the artworks, revealing details about the palette choices of different professors’ students. For example, differences were observed between the yellow pigments favoured by Veloso Salgado’s students (yellow ochre) and Columbano Bordalo Pinheiro’s students (chrome yellow). The research also shed light on the similarities in the palette used by these students compared to Veloso Salgado during his student years.
Various techniques were employed to analyse the paintings, including infrared reflectography, radiography, micro-Raman, micro-FTIR, and SEM-EDS. These methods allowed for the identification of underdrawings, underpaintings, painting styles, and execution methods, providing a comprehensive understanding of the artistic techniques employed in the creation of these academic nude paintings.
Overall, this study contributes valuable information to the field of art history by offering insights into the materials, techniques, and artistic training methodologies employed in academic painting during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The comparison between different professors’ classes and the analysis of pigments used provide a deeper understanding of the artistic practices prevalent at the Academy of Fine Arts of Lisbon during the specified time period.
