Edvard Munch’s Collection of Drawing Materials: Crayon Characterization

Abstract

This paper contains an interpretation of the results obtained from Fourier Transform Infrared micro-spectroscopy (µ-FTIR) and Pyrolysis - Gas Chromatography coupled with Mass Spectrometry (Py-GC-MS) techniques applied on the crayons used by Edvard Munch (1863-1944) and now stored at the Munch Museum (MUNCH). Around 100 of different brands from Edvard Munch’s collection of reference materials available at the Munch Museum were analyzed. Micro-destructive methods as µ-FTIR and Py-GC-MS were used to characterize the constituent materials of crayon samples, with a special focus on organic binding medium, to allow the classification of different brands of crayons. Two natural waxes (beeswax and carnauba wax) were identified by µ-FTIR, but the most specific chemical information on wax mixtures was attained by Py-GC-MS. The present study adds more analytical data on Edvard Munch’s legacy and was developed under the framework of the collaborative research project “THE SCREAM-Touchstone for Heritage Endangered by Salt Crystallization: a Research Enterprise on the Art of Munch” between the HERCULES Laboratory and the Munch Museum in Oslo.