Hyper-Spectral Imaging Technique in the Cultural Heritage Field: New Possible Scenarios.

Marcello Picollo,Andrea Casini,Lorenzo Stefani,Costanza Cucci

doi:10.3390/s20102843

Marcello Picollo, Andrea Casini + Show 2 more

Open Access

https://doi.org/10.3390/s20102843

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Abstract

Imaging spectroscopy technique was introduced in the cultural heritage field in the 1990s, when a multi-spectral imaging system based on a Vidicon camera was used to identify and map pigments in paintings. Since then, with continuous improvements in imaging technology, the quality of spectroscopic information in the acquired imaging data has greatly increased. Moreover, with the progressive transition from multispectral to hyperspectral imaging techniques, numerous new applicative perspectives have become possible, ranging from non-invasive monitoring to high-quality documentation, such as mapping and characterization of polychrome and multi-material surfaces of cultural properties. This article provides a brief overview of recent developments in the rapidly evolving applications of hyperspectral imaging in this field. The fundamentals of the various strategies, that have been developed for applying this technique to different types of artworks are discussed, together with some examples of recent applications.

Highlights

In order to provide curators, scholars, conservators, archaeologists and conservation scientists with efficient tools for gaining knowledge of artifacts and archeological objects, it is important to study the materials and artists’ techniques used in creating the artworks and understand what restoration materials have subsequently been adopted in their preservation [1,2]
Imaging spectroscopy technique was introduced in the cultural heritage field in the 1990s, when a multi-spectral imaging system based on a Vidicon camera was used to identify and map pigments in paintings
Scientific investigation programs encompass a hierarchical use of analytical techniques, starting from non-invasive imaging techniques that are used for a preliminary screening and extensive evaluation of the surface, followed by non-invasive analytical spot techniques and, only when needed, as the last step, a complementary phase with micro-invasive techniques focused on investigating few suitable, selected points

Summary

Introduction

In order to provide curators, scholars, conservators, archaeologists and conservation scientists with efficient tools for gaining knowledge of artifacts and archeological objects, it is important to study the materials and artists’ techniques used in creating the artworks and understand what restoration materials have subsequently been adopted in their preservation [1,2]. The measurements acquired in this project were performed with a modified version of high-resolution spatial and spectral HSI scanner made by IFAC-CNR, which allows non-invasive operations on surfaces of variable dimensions This innovative IFAC-CNR HSI prototype, used to study 35 mm photographic negatives and positives, was optimized for the inspection of details featuring millimetric (or sub-millimetric) sizes [33]. The application of HSI technique for the colorimetric analysis of paintings before and after the restoration is still rare in the field due to the difficulties in having accurate, reliable, and reproducible data suitable for matching the colorimetric calculations as required by CIE In addition to these two pioneering approaches, some significant examples of HSI applications in the CH field are presented with a focus on the most recent developments that point toward new applicative directions

State-of-the-Art of HSI Systems

HSI Application on Photographic Materials

HSI Application for Colorimetric Analysis of Paintings

Application of a Newvalues

Conclusions