Hyperspectral imaging combined with data classification techniques as an aid for artwork authentication

Adam Polak,Nicholas Eastaugh,Stephen Marshall,David J.M Stothard,Francis Eastaugh,Paul Murray,Timothy Kelman

doi:10.1016/j.culher.2017.01.013

Abstract

In recent years various scientific practices have been adapted to the artwork analysis process. Although a set of techniques is available for art historians and scientists, there is a constant need for rapid and non-destructive methods to empower the art authentication process. In this paper hyperspectral imaging combined with signal processing and classification techniques are proposed as a tool to enhance the process for identification of art forgeries. Using bespoke paintings designed for this work, a spectral library of selected pigments was established and the viability of training and the application of classification techniques based on this data was demonstrated. Using these techniques for the analysis of actual forged paintings resulted in the identification of anachronistic paint, confirming the falsity of the artwork. This paper demonstrates the applicability of infrared (IR) hyperspectral imaging for artwork authentication.

Highlights

According to a recent studies, in 2014 the global art market reached its highest ever-recorded level of just over D 51 billion worldwide [1]
Hyperspectral Imaging (HSI) combined with chemometrics algorithms is proposed as a novel, non-invasive analysis method for classification and mapping of paints and pigments
Hyperspectral Imaging combined with advanced signal processing techniques is a valid and potent technique which can be used as a tool to support the process of artwork authentication by identification and classification of pigments

Summary

Introduction

According to a recent studies, in 2014 the global art market reached its highest ever-recorded level of just over D 51 billion worldwide [1]. Non-destructive tests provide the possibility to use complementary techniques and obtain more information from the same sample. Several such methods, for instance X-ray fluorescence and FTIR (Fourier Transform Infrared) or Raman spectroscopy, exist and are applicable for studying artwork [5,6]. For instance X-ray fluorescence and FTIR (Fourier Transform Infrared) or Raman spectroscopy, exist and are applicable for studying artwork [5,6] These methods are commonly used for scientific art investigation as well as for some other applications, there is still a need for new, non-invasive techniques that could extend the amount of information obtained from the artwork analyses and limit the number of invasive testing required. The aim is that these tools will serve as an aid for artwork evaluation and the identification of counterfeits

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Conclusion