Imaging techniques like UV, IR, and X-ray are game-changers in art conservation. They reveal hidden details, past restorations, and internal structures that the naked eye can't see. These tools help conservators understand artwork better and make smarter decisions about preservation.
Each technique has its strengths. UV shows surface details and previous repairs. IR uncovers underdrawings and changes in composition. X-rays reveal internal structures and materials. Together, they give a complete picture of an artwork's history and condition.
UV Imaging in Art Conservation
UV Radiation Properties and Interactions
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Invisible Brushstrokes Revealed | Mummy Portraits of Roman Egypt View original
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Ultraviolet (UV) imaging utilizes electromagnetic radiation with wavelengths between 10-400 nanometers, shorter than visible light but longer than X-rays
UV fluorescence occurs when materials absorb UV radiation and emit visible light, enabling identification of specific pigments, varnishes, and surface treatments
UV reflectance imaging captures UV radiation reflection from artwork surfaces, revealing details invisible under normal light conditions
Different UV lamp types (UVA, UVB, UVC) used in conservation have specific applications and safety considerations
UVA (315-400 nm): Used for general fluorescence examination
UVB (280-315 nm): Employed for specific
UVC (100-280 nm): Utilized in sterilization and cleaning processes
UV Imaging Applications and Equipment
detects previous restorations, retouches, and damage areas on artworks (paintings, sculptures)
Specialized equipment required for UV imaging includes:
UV-transmitting filters: Allow UV radiation to pass through to the artwork
UV-blocking filters: Prevent UV radiation from reaching the camera sensor
UV-sensitive digital cameras or film: Capture UV-induced fluorescence or reflectance
Interpretation of UV images demands expertise in characteristic fluorescence patterns of art materials
Example: Aged varnishes often fluoresce yellow-green under UV light
Example: Modern retouches appear dark against the fluorescent background of original paint layers
IR Imaging for Underlying Layers
IR Imaging Principles and Techniques
Infrared imaging uses electromagnetic radiation with wavelengths between 750 nanometers and 1 millimeter, longer than visible light but shorter than microwaves
IR reflectography exploits varying degrees of IR radiation absorption and reflection by different materials
Carbon-based materials (graphite, charcoal) strongly absorb IR radiation, revealing underdrawings and sketches beneath paint layers
Different IR wavelength ranges offer varying penetration degrees, suitable for diverse artworks and materials
Near-IR (750-1400 nm): Ideal for examining surface layers
Short-wave IR (1400-3000 nm): Penetrates deeper, revealing underdrawings
Mid-wave IR (3000-8000 nm): Used for specific material analysis
Advanced IR Imaging and Interpretation
IR imaging reveals changes in composition, pentimenti, and artist's corrections invisible to the naked eye
Advanced techniques like multispectral and hyperspectral imaging provide detailed information about pigment composition and distribution
Multispectral imaging: Captures data in multiple specific wavelength bands
Hyperspectral imaging: Collects continuous spectral information across a wide range
Interpretation of IR images requires knowledge of: