Raman and ATR-FTIR analyses of medieval wall paintings from al-Qarawiyyin in Fez (Morocco).

A multi-analytical study has been undertaken to characterise wall paintings from the al-Qarawiyyin university in Fez, dating back to the 9th century and still in activity, with the aim of identifying the pigments used and going back to the painting techniques adopted by the Moroccan craftsmen of the time. The investigation crossed Raman and ATR-FTIR structural analyses along with XRF elemental ones, as well as colorimetric measurements. The colours and shades of six representative fragments collected during a recent excavation have been examined.