Artificial Ageing Study and Evaluation of Methods for Oil Removal on Decorative Plaster in Artistic Hispano-Muslim Artworks

Abstract

This study investigates Hispano-Muslim plasterworks, exemplified by the Cuarto Real de Santo Domingo, the Madraza, and the Alhambra in Granada, focusing on cleaning methods to remove oil-based repaintings without damaging the original polychromies. To this end, samples replicating traditional materials (gypsum coating, pigments, and binders) and techniques (tempera painting) were prepared and subjected to an artificial ageing protocol (AAP). Subsequently, cleaning tests aimed at removing the oil repaintings were performed to recover the original polychromies. Analytical techniques, including Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry (GC–MS), and colorimetry, were employed to evaluate ageing effects and cleaning efficacy. Results revealed significant chromatic alterations in vermilion and azurite bound with animal glue, while ochre remained comparatively stable. Chemical analyses indicated marked binder deterioration, including protein denaturation in animal glue and oxidation/polymerization in linseed oil. Cleaning tests demonstrated that both a heptane–acetone gel and a novel polyamidoamine–glycine (PAAGLY) treatment effectively removed oil-based repaintings while preserving the original layers. These findings highlight the critical role of pigment–binder interactions in conservation strategies and advocate for selective, minimally invasive restoration methods.