New methods for art object conservation and restoration – practical experience in the field: the experience of The True Image Solution Ltd

Abstract

Previously, scientific examination of works of art was almost exclusively carried out in a specialist laboratory, major gallery or institution. Moving the artwork nearly always involved associated risks and transportation and insurance costs. Founded in 2009, The True Image Solution (TIS) had a vision to bring non-destructive technology to the artwork and to extend the possible range of evaluation by applying other imaging techniques, including ultrasound, flash thermography, X-ray spectroscopy and microwave imaging. In conjunction with English Heritage, these techniques were applied to a wide variety of objects. The results demonstrated that all of these techniques could be successfully carried out in situ and the risk of transportation damage, as well as associated transport and insurance costs, could be eliminated.