Diagnosis and Evaluation of Conservation State of Mural Paintings in Payathonzu Temple on Bagan Heritage Site in Myanmar

Abstract

A diagnostic investigation of the conservation state of damaged murals of the Payathonzu temple mainly indicated delamination, exfoliation, and contamination of the coloring layer; cracks and damage to the wall; and separation from gaps. In particular, vulnerabilities resulting from cracks in the wall and damage from gaps demand swift reinforcement measures. Ultrasonic testing uncovered damage caused by gaps between the base layer and plastered wall in several areas of the mural, vulnerable parts in the wall around the cracks, and considerable degradation of the physical properties where cracks and gaps were severe. Moisture measurements identified vast disparities in moisture depending on location even within a single area of the mural, and it was clear that these disparities were the result of environmental conditions such as humidity. Damage to the murals in monument 477 was the most severe, and a diagnostic of the physical properties uncovered severe physical damage to the upper part of the mural as well as to the corridor ceiling, thus presenting the need for conservation treatment utilizing scientific diagnosis as well as objective data.

Experimental Reinforcement Agent for Damaged Walls of Payathonzu Temple Murals in Bagan, Myanmar

“…The middle layers of the murals in the Payathonzu temple are decorated with approximately 5∼7 mm lime plasters, with a support layer composed of piled bricks. The finishing layer on top of the middle layer consists of approximately 3∼5 mm thick lime plasters (Lee et al, 2019).…”