Technical examination, material characterization, and restoration of the landscape painting by Mıgırdiç Givanian (1848-1906)

This study presents the documentation, technical examinations, material characterization, and restoration work of an oil painting on a metal plate signed by Mıgırdiç Givanian. The painting was analyzed with visible, ultraviolet and oblique light, optical microscopy, X-ray, Raman and micro-X-Ray fluorescence spectrometry. Optical microscopy provided insights into the painting technique and deteriorations. It was determined that the artist used an iron-based metal plate and pigments including lead white, calcite, vermilion, Prussian blue, hematite, carbon black, and gypsum, which were identified through Raman analysis. The XRF analysis suggested the possibility of a copper-based green pigment, lead-tin yellow, and chrome yellow. During the restoration phase, the yellowed varnish layer on the surface was cleaned, and the localized retouches on the painting surface, were removed. As a finishing application, the surface was re-varnished and retouched. This study is significant as it represents the first comprehensive work conducted on a painting signed by Givanian.