Rigaku Corporation conducted X-ray fluorescence (XRF) measurements on fusuma-e (painted sliding partitions) at Daijoji Temple in Hyogo Prefecture in May 2025. The project aims to uncover the artistic techniques used by Maruyama Okyo (1733-1795) and restore the original colors of the gold-leaf backing.
A team of researchers, including Shinno Yamasoba, Tetsuya Senda, and Takeshi Tanaka, employed a handheld XRF analyzer to investigate Okyo's artistic intentions and the historical context of his paintings. The analysis focused on determining the production timing of peacock images and analyzing gold foil compositions.
The team compared gold foil from the Edo era with that used in Meiji era repairs. The analytical results are expected to serve as a scientific resource to deepen the understanding of Maruyama Okyo's painting techniques. Rigaku aims to preserve and transmit cultural treasures through science and technology.