The noninvasive analysis of painted surfaces: scientific impact and conservation practice

Abstract

While non-destructive and micro-destructive analytical methods are often essential for the study and understanding of paintings, recent development in portable and non-invasive instrumentation has led to growing interest in the applicability of techniques to the study of paintings. Further, as new instrumentation becomes commercially available and more affordable, conservators and scientists are able to use non-invasive techniques for monitoring and analysis in new ways. A particular focus of the proceedings will be the interpretation of analytical results from portable instrumentation including colorimetry, imaging and X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy.