Laser Desorption Mass Spectrometry as a Tool for the Analysis of Colorants: The Identification of Pigments Used in Illuminated Manuscripts*

Abstract

Laser desorption mass spectrometry (LDMS) is demonstrated as a versatile analytical tool for the identification of pigments used in items of historical and archaeological interest. To demonstrate the LDMS technique, two illuminated manuscripts, reported to be 17th‐century and 19th‐century documents, were analysed. Using isotopic pattern analysis of peaks in the resulting LD mass spectra, multiple colour components were positively identified. The analysis of the pigments present on the documents offers insights into their authenticity.