The measurements were conducted as part of a research project to “restore the original colors of the gold-leaf backing of fusuma-e drawn by Maruyama Okyo (1733-1795), a painter of the mid to late Edo period. The project is being conducted through the collaboration of three researchers: Shinno Yamasoba, assistant chief priest of Daijoji Temple and project leader; Tetsuya Senda, formerly of the National Maritime Research Institute; and Takeshi Tanaka, artist and professor at Tohoku University of Art & Design.

The purpose of the measurements was to investigate scientifically the artistic intention of Maruyama Okyo, the historical context in which he painted, and the impact that restoration would have. The team used the Thermo Scientific™ Niton™ XL5 Plus, a handheld X-ray fluorescence (XRF) analyzer, for its ability to analyze material composition non-destructively. Detailed data were acquired, focusing on the following three areas of interest.

(1) Determining the timing of production of the peacock images

The team measured to determine whether the gold foil used in the two center panels and the two end panels were of the same or different composition. Confirmation that the compositions are different would provide scientific evidence that the fusuma-e were produced at different times.

(2) Use of gold foil to express perspective

Preliminary measurements suggest that gold foil was used on panels with colored drawings of basho (Japanese fiber banana) to produce a bright, reddish tinge, and on panels with ink drawings of peacocks to create a dark, bluish aspect. In this measurement, the compositions of all fusuma were analyzed to examine further whether different color gradations of gold foil were used in two-panel spaces to create perspective (sense of depth). The results are expected to lead to fresh understanding of the expressive techniques of Okyo.

(3) Use of gold foil in the Edo and Meiji eras

The team compared the gold foil Okyo used in the original paintings in the Edo era with the gold foil used in repairs in the early Meiji era (mid-to-late 19th century). This measurement was a precious opportunity to obtain quantitative data on the gold foil used in the Edo era.

These analytical results are expected to be used as a scientific resource to deepen understanding of the painting aches and techniques of Maruyama Okyo.

Rigaku will continue to contribute to the preservation of cultural treasures and transmission of them to future generations through science and technology.