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Project

Fusing microscopic and nanoscopic 3D data with macroscopic 2D mapping information for a better understanding of paint degradation phenomena in 17th. century masterpieces

This project main aim is to apply data-fusion technology already successfully used in catalytic chemistry, to visualize in 3D the dynamic effects of degradation processes in paint multilayer structures, present in historical oil paintings. Such a hybrid 3D model will allow to better interpret the visual and chemical patterns that manifest themselves at the surface of degraded artworks in terms of the chemical alteration processes that have been going on in the (recent) past. 2D chemical maps on the macro (m range, on entire artworks) and microscale (μm-mm range, on paint cross sections) will be combined on the one hand with tomographic 3D density maps to link the formation, migration and superficial crystallization of secondary degradation products to visually observable clues on the condition of painted works of art. These observations will be combined with already available insights on chemical degradation mechanisms. Attention will be focused on two alteration mechanisms in 17th c. paintings, already familiar to the proposer: (a) the formation of lead soap protrusions and surface crusts of the ubiquitous pigment "lead white" (PbCO3) and its effects on the mechanical stability and appearance of paints in major works by Rubens, Jordaens and Rembrandt and (b) the oxidative color loss of arsenic sulfide pigments in paintings by J.D. De Heem et al. where the in situ formed arsenate species can be used as markers of transport processes occurring within paint systems.
Date:1 Jan 2019 →  31 Dec 2022
Keywords:CALIBRATION
Disciplines:Spectroscopic methods
Project type:Collaboration project