A Multi-Analytical study of Rock Paintings from Leandro 5 Megalithic Barrow, North-Weastern Portugal

Abstract

The colourant composition of a northern Portugal megalithic barrow decorated with ‘solar’ motifs was studied using a multi-analytical approach, allowing the characterisa- tion of the painting techniques, pigments and binders. The red pigment was prepared with iron oxide minerals, using vegetal oils as organic additives, while the black pigment was char- coal without any organic additives or binders. The solar motif was first drawn with charcoal and subsequently painted with a red pigment.