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

Severe physical damage to murals and structural elements in the Payathonzu Temple at Bagan, Myanmar, was identified through advanced diagnostic techniques. The study revealed critical vulnerabilities, including cracks, delamination, exfoliation, and contamination of mural layers, as well as gaps between base layers and plastered walls, which require urgent conservation intervention. Ultrasonic testing exposed significant degradation in areas with severe cracking and gaps, while moisture measurements highlighted substantial variations linked to environmental humidity. The most pronounced damage was observed in monument 477, necessitating scientific diagnosis-driven conservation efforts to address both structural and aesthetic deterioration.

Lee, H. S., Kim, S. H., & Han, K. S. (2019). Diagnosis and Evaluation of Conservation State of Mural Paintings in Payathonzu Temple on Bagan Heritage Site in Myanmar. Journal of Conservation Science, 35(5), 494–507. https://doi.org/10.12654/jcs.2019.35.5.10