Multi technique and multiscale approaches to the study of ancient and modern art objects on wooden and canvas support

Abstract

Abstract The present chapter will illustrate few examples of multi-technique and multi-scale approaches for objects belonging to past or modern periods in the history of art chronology. Thus, four studies on four different topics are brought to the attention: multi disciplinary and multi-techniques characterization of gilded altarpieces and sculptures in Portugal between 1500 and 1800 (3 years research project); an interdisciplinary approach to easel paintings from fifteenth and sixteenth century in Portugal (3 years research project); characterization of ketone resins varnishes (2 years research project) and of salts developed on canvas paintings from the Munch Museum collection (past investigation to be continued with an ongong 3 years research project). These studies show how important is to make use of different analytical tools when investigating a specific material, artistic technique or degradation phenomenon. The objects studied in the above mentioned research projects were created on wooden or canvas supports and they present paint, polichromy or gilded layers, and varnish coatings, therefore their structure and composition is complex and requires a complex, interdisciplinary approach. In many cases to the surface materials from a polychrome or painted object, degradation products are present and their identification as well the understanding of their mechanism of formation is possible only we have a complete overview of the materials present in the layered structure of the object.