Applied Physics Institute “Nello Carrara” (IFAC-CNR), Firenze

Via Panciatichi 64 – 50127, Firenze - Italy

Tel. +39 055 4235217 - Fax +39 055 4235355

E-mail address: m.bacci@ifac.cnr.it

The fact that every work of art is a unique piece emphasises the necessity of working with non-invasive methodologies.

In this communication instruments, which were realized at IFAC-CNR, Florence, and their application to actual cases will be presented. Such instrumentation is based on spectroscopic techniques, namely image spectroscopy (IS) and fibre optic reflectance spectroscopy (FORS). Indeed, the integrated use of both techniques constitutes a powerful tool for obtaining a large amount of spectroscopic information without any sampling, thus overcoming all the limitations and problems involved in sampling operations. Moreover, the availability of lightweight and compact equipment makes it possible to perform measurements in situ on objects that cannot be removed from their location.

Furthermore, due to the fact that these techniques are non-invasive and are thus safe for works of art it is possible to re-measure the same object after a given time, to monitor the conservation conditions of the work of art, and also to follow the restoration processes. The methodology also enables the acquisition of a large number of spectra over the entire artefact. This wide sampling operation, the performance of which would be unthinkable with micro-sampling techniques, provides a large amount of data, which can be used for statistical analyses.

As regards the application to actual cases, two case studies will be reported: a) a Leonardo da Vinci’s painting, where pigments, binding medium, preparatory layer and previous restoration works were identified; b) the colour evolution of a Luca Signorelli’s predella was monitored over the years during the exhibition to the public, during the restoration intervention and after the restoration.

Finally, a brief account of the studies performed at IFAC – CNR about indoor light control will be given and the possible use of a new light dosimeter will be suggested.