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A Note on the Imprimatura in Two of Dosso Dossi's Paintings

1994; Routledge; Volume: 33; Issue: 3 Linguagem: Inglês

10.2307/3179640

1945-2330

Barbara H. Berrie,

Historical Art and Architecture Studies

The imprimatura in two paintings by Dosso Dossi (Ferrarese, ca. 1490–1542) were examined using scanning electron microscopy coupled with energy dispersive x-ray spectrometry. An assemblage of mineral species was found and identified, among them pyrite, dolomite, micaceous minerals, gypsum, and quartz. A high proportion of lead white was also found. The results of the analysis suggest that clay was used in the imprimatura mixture. A search of the literature on painting technique of the time yielded little evidence about the use of clay in the imprimatura layer, although it is discussed in Vasari in the 16th century.