Authenticity and adulteration: What materials were 19th century artists really using?

Abstract

Abstract Documentary sources from the 18th and 19th century indicate that the practice of adulterating consumer goods was widespread. Ample evidence in artists’ manuals, treatises and handbooks as well as contemporary encyclopedias exists to suggest that artists’ materials were not exempt from such fraudulent practices. Pigments, oil, and resins were all reported to have been subject to significant adulteration as well as outright substitution with cheaper materials. This paper discusses the extent of adulteration, specific examples reported, and the adulterants used.