In this research, our attention is focused on the identification and mapping of the various lead compounds. This helps assessing the original paint components, conservation and degradation products, and the painting technique. Accordingly, the composition and the distribution of materials were determined from the macro-scale -via large maps acquired directly on The Night Watch- to the micro-scale -via various (sub)microscopic modalities on minute samples taken from the artwork. Paintings are highly heterogeneous materials, both along the surface of the painting and in depth (from varnish to support). The materiality of the painting was chemically investigated using various complementary analytical techniques, in particular chemical imaging methods that operate at multiple length scales. 1 The research questions were threefold: i) How did Rembrandt paint The Night Watch? ii) What is the condition of the painting? iii) How can we best preserve it for future generations? These questions were addressed in a multidisciplinary manner in close collaboration with conservators, art historians and scientists. In 2019, Operation Night Watch, the largest research and conservation project ever undertaken for Rembrandt's masterpiece was initiated. Rembrandt showcased his virtuosity, not only by achieving a bold composition with striking light and shadow effects, but also by his constant search for novelty in painting materials and techniques. It is the largest extant work of art he ever painted, measuring 3.79×4.53 m. The Night Watch, painted in 1642, today displayed in the Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam, is one of his most important masterpieces. Rembrandt van Rijn (1606–1669) is one of the most innovative Dutch 17 th-century painters. Both lead(II) formate and lead(II) formate hydroxide Pb(HCOO)(OH) were detected and mapped, providing new clues regarding the reactivity of lead driers in oil matrices in historical paintings. Synchrotron radiation based micro-XRPD (SR-μ-XRPD) and infrared microscopy were combined to identify and map at the micro-scale various neo-formed lead-based compounds in these model samples. In order to get insights into this phenomenon, one possible chemical pathway was explored thanks to the preparation and micro-analysis of model oil paint media prepared by heating linseed oil and lead(II) oxide (PbO) drier as described in 17 th century recipes. Until now, this compound was never reported in historical oil paints. X-ray powder diffraction (XRPD) mapping at multiple length scales revealed the unusual presence of lead(II) formate, Pb(HCOO) 2, in several areas of the painting. The Night Watch, painted in 1642 and on view in the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam, is considered Rembrandt's most famous work.
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