Identification of organic binders in prehistoric pigments through multiproxy archaeometric analyses from the Toca do Paraguaio and the Boqueir˜ao da Pedra Furada shelters (Capivara Sierra, Piau´ı, Brazil)

Pigments from several prehistoric rock art paintings samples were analysed through a multiproxy archaeometric approach. Sampling occurred in two rock-shelters within the National Park of Serra da Capivara area (an UNESCO World Heritage Site): The Toca do Paraguaio and the Toca do Boqueir˜ao da Pedra Furada. Five complementary techniques such as X-Ray Micro-Fluorescence, Raman Spectroscopy, Scanning Electron Microscopy, Stereomicroscope Observation and High Temperature-Gas Chromatography were combined in order to identify and characterize the inorganic and organic pigment materials. In particular, gas-chromatography analyses revealed the presence of binders, hardly recognized in rock art prehistoric pigments. These binders’ substances (plant fatty acids) could be included in the pigment process ”chain-op´eratoire”.