MA-XRF for the Characterisation of the Painting Materials and Technique of the Entombment of Christ by Rogier van der Weyden

Anna Mazzinghi,Lisa Castelli,Lorenzo Giuntini,Caroline Czelusniak,Chiara Ruberto,Pier Andrea Mandò,Francesco Taccetti

doi:10.3390/app11136151

Abstract

At present, macro X-ray fluorescence (MA-XRF) is one of the most essential analytical methods exploited by heritage science. By providing spatial distribution elemental maps, not only does it allow for material characterisation but also to understand, or at least to have a likely idea of, the production techniques of an analysed object. INFN-CHNet, the Cultural Heritage Network of the Italian National Institute of Nuclear Physics, designed and developed a MA-XRF scanner aiming to be a lightweight, easy to transport piece of equipment for use in in situ measurements. In this study, the INFN-CHNet MA-XRF scanner was employed for the analysis of a painting by the Flemish artist Rogier van der Weyden. The painting belongs to the collection of the Uffizi gallery in Florence and was analysed during conservation treatments at the Opificio delle Pietre Dure, one of the main conservation centres in Italy. The research aims were to characterise the materials employed by the artist and to possibly understand his painting technique. Although MA-XRF alone cannot provide a comprehensive characterisation, it nonetheless proved to be an invaluable tool for providing an initial overview or hypothesis of the painting materials and techniques used.

Highlights

Macro X-ray fluorescence mapping, widely known as macro X-ray fluorescence (MA-XRF) in the scientific community [1], is one of the most valuable tools aiding the heritage science field
Rogier van der Weyden demonstrated his technical skills in naturalistic detail, and added emotions as an important element of the naturalism of characters, painting people moved to tears and covering their faces to express their grief or sorrow
Calcite traces in lead white were found by de Viguerie et al [32] in other works by Rogier van der Weyden

Summary

Introduction

Macro X-ray fluorescence mapping, widely known as MA-XRF in the scientific community [1], is one of the most valuable tools aiding the heritage science field. MA-XRF analysis produces elemental distribution maps of a scanned area of an object, proving to be exceptionally useful for material characterisation and for understanding an artist’s painting and production techniques. The technique is relatively fast; the acquisition time naturally depends on the dimensions of the area of analysis and the dimensions and characteristics of the instrument employed. Numerous types of equipment are available nowadays, ranging from small and easy-to-transport instruments customized for the analysis of areas of only a few cm2 [2,3] to massive scanners allowing large areas to be analysed in a reasonably short acquisition time [4,5,6]

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