Artwork Materials Research Articles

Microanalytical Characterization of Art-Work Materials: Spatially Resolved Techniques

This study presents the application of lateral (SEM/EDX, SAM, SIMS) and vertical (SAM, XPS, SIMS) high resolution techniques on materials in art- work of cultural heritage. Emphasis will be placed on how such techniques are now indispensable in a science-based approach to the characterization of materials and the rationalization of their degradation, this in itself being essential for conservation and useful for a clearer understanding of the artistic techniques used in the past.

Application of analytical pyrolysis to problems in art and archaeology: A review

Though pyrolysis-gas chromatography (Py-GC) has recently become a very powerful technique for characterization of non-volatile materials and though it has been widely used in forensic science and in industrial laboratories, its application to conservation has been severely limited due to the compositional complexity and extremely limited sample size of the materials presented for examination. Similarly, the absence of a reliable “compound reference library” for identification of major materials in art works (e.g., aged films of linseed oil, dammar, or mastic from different sources) has limited researchers' ability to conduct comparative studies on actual artifacts. In the past, serious problems in attaining specific pyrolysis of samples and insufficient chromatographic separation of degradation products discouraged most conservation scientists in applying this technique. The use of Py-GC in the study of materials (e.g., linseed oil, amber, glues, natural products) and in the study of specific problems (Renaissance bronze patinas, printing inks, antique furniture coatings, or the medium of a painting on a 1600 year old sarcophagus) is reviewed to provide an introduction to applications of this technique in art and archaeology.

MOSSBAUER EFFECT STUDIES IN THE FINE ARTS

ABSTRACTSThe use of Mossbauer effect spectrometry as a tool to study iron‐bearing materials in works of art is introduced. A large range of pigments containing iron has now been surveyed. In addition, some interesting conclusions concerning the distinction between two types of terracotta is presented. The method, which can be applied completely non‐destructively, has great potential for purposes of identification and authentication.

Radiation and Optical Techniques in the Visual Examination of Paintings

Employing highly sophisticated chemical, physical, and optical techniques, scientists analyze and even date materials in works of art. The art conservator, however, in his routine examination of a painting has at his disposal simple, nondestructive, visual methods for investigating its construction and the extent of deterioration and alteration. Using various kinds of visible radiation, low power stereoscopic magnification, uv, ir, and x rays, he may uncover evidence indicative of either a genuine or fraudulent provenance. Illustrations of successful applications of the techniques are given, but it is emphasized that often no information of immediate significance to authenticity is forthcoming.