IR-spectroscopy was used to analyze and compare samples of grounds and paints of Central Asian wall paintings dating from 6000 B. C. to 1700 A.D. Gypsum was identified in the grounds and sometimes in mixtures with CaCo₃, or in organic compounds. Investigations of red and rose paints show that the color is due to the presence of hematite and that soil minerals are frequently the components of pigments. Red pigments from some Kara-tepe and Faiaz-tepe rooms are identical as determined by x-ray analysis. Yellow and brown pigments consist largely ofclay minerals and gypsum. Blue paints were lapis-lazuli; and glauconite was used as a pigment of green paint. Charcoal was used in the preparation of black paints. -- AATA