Analysis of Decorative Paintings in the Dragon and Tiger Hall of Yuzhen Palace: Culture, Materials, and Technology

Abstract

Yuzhen Palace in Wudang Mountain, established in the 10th year of the Yongle reign of the Ming dynasty (1412 AD), is a significant heritage site within the ancient architectural complex of Wudang Mountain, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Despite being entirely relocated, the original paintings on the wooden beams of the Dragon and Tiger Hall exhibit clear characteristics of early Ming dynasty style, potentially being the only surviving wooden painted structures from the Ming dynasty in Wudang Mountain. To protect these valuable cultural relics and provide accurate information regarding the construction period of the paintings, this study sampled the paintings from the central and western sections of the front eaves in the Dragon and Tiger Hall. Using optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Raman spectroscopy, and infrared spectroscopy, the study analyzed the stylistic features, material composition, and craftsmanship of the paintings. The results indicate that the paintings are typical official Xuanzi paintings from the early Ming dynasty, consistent with the style of the Golden Roof in Taihe Palace, Wudang Mountain. The pigments used are all natural minerals: azurite (2CuCO3·Cu(OH)2) for blue, malachite (CuCO3·Cu(OH)2) for green, and vermilion (HgS) and hematite (Fe2O3) for red, reflecting typical early Ming dynasty characteristics. The craftsmanship shows that the paintings were applied directly onto the wooden components without a ground layer, using ink lines to outline the images, and a thin ground layer made of tung oil mixed with lime was applied under the oil coating. This study provides scientific material analysis and data support for the subsequent protection and restoration of the Yuzhen Palace architectural complex, ensuring the preservation of these historically and artistically significant relics for future generations.