Application of Non-Destructive Techniques. The Madonna Del Latte Case Study

Abstract

<p class="Abstract">In the frame of a research project involving a private collection of artworks a panel painting representing the Nursing Madonna (<em>Madonna del latte</em>) was studied by means of scientific examination.</p><p class="Abstract">The Department of Chemistry and Industrial Chemistry (DCCI) of the University of Genoa carried out non-invasive exams, combining imaging techniques with analytical analyses.</p><p class="Abstract">Infrared reflectography (IRR), infrared false colour (IRFC), UV fluorescence (UVF), X-ray fluorescence (XRF) and reflectance spectroscopy in the visible range (vis-RS) were used to analyse the painting palette thus obtaining more information on a possible creation date of the painting.</p><p class="Abstract">Some of the most interesting results are the identification of a freehand underdrawing and the usage of lead white, cinnabar, Fe-based pigments for yellows and browns and Cu-based pigments for blue and green colours.</p>The scientific results, as well as historical researches allow the hypothesis that the <em>Madonna del latte </em>was authored in the early 16<sup>th</sup> century by a Florentine artist, probably a scholar of Baccio della Porta.