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I am attempting to identify the age of a Chinese stone Buddha through the gilding applied to its surface. Under 100x magnification the gilding appears to be flakes of gold held to the surface by a black mastic. XRF analysis found Dolomite, Arkenite and Graphite. I feel that gilding may consist of loose, unrefined gold that was crushed, then sieved held to the coal tar mastic. Has anyone come across this technique. Note: some of the sculpture found in UR used a bituminous mastic and gold flakes.

Probably best to add a photo as age is better determined by cognoscenti opinion rather than science. Can also contact experts at the major auction houses in NYC.

Jonathan, I've just come upon an opinion that states based on the artistics that it is northern wei I have had 2 experts say it was Sui I'm hoping to find a way to date it by the technique used in the gilding or it seems to be unique is there any standard text that specifically goes over the artistic design elements of different dynasties thank you very much

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