Welcome to CHSOS Application Notes – your hub for in‑depth white papers on the Scientific Examination of Art
. This collection offers expert guidance on:
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Pigment analysis with UV reflectance using the GorgiasUV spectrometer
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FTIR diffuse reflectance applications for pigment spectrometry
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Reflectance spectra database insights for modern and contemporary pigments checker
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Transmitted infrared photography techniques for documents on translucent supports
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Infrared reflectography fluorescence for material detection
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Technical photography methods tailored to modern/contemporary pigment documentation
Each note includes practical workflows, as well as analysis of the tools used for the Scientific Examination of Art, such as spectrometers, cameras, and checkers. Moreover, it features real-world case studies. In addition, you can dive into the detailed science behind each method and, consequently, enhance your art examination toolkit.
1. CHSOS Application note #1: Testing GorgiasUV on Pigments Checker
2. CHSOS Application note # 2: FTIR Diffuse Reflectance. Pigments Checker Database
3. CHSOS Application note #3: Transmitted Infrared Photography with SALVO
6. CHSOS Application note #6: Technical Photography of Pigments Checker Modern & Contemporary Art
7. CHSOS Application note #7: IRRF – Infrared Reflectography Fluorescence
Resources on Scientific Examination of Art
There is a vast and growing body of literature on art conservation science. For instance, the resources listed below represent just a few examples of reputable journals, databases, and research portals. Through these, you can explore scientific studies, technical reports, and case studies related to the preservation and analysis of cultural heritage.
AATA Online (Art & Archaeology Technical Abstracts)
Maintained by the Getty Conservation Institute in collaboration with the International Institute for Conservation, AATA offers over 100,000 bibliographic entries and abstracts across scientific and technical conservation literature. Specifically, it includes journal articles, technical reports, conference proceedings, theses, and more. As a result, it is widely regarded as the most comprehensive index in the field.
Studies in Conservation
The flagship journal of the International Institute for Conservation, featuring peer-reviewed original research on conservation methods and scientific examination of art, including infrared, XRF, and multispectral imaging applications.
Heritage
A peer-reviewed open-access journal by MDPI dedicated to heritage science, including conservation, material studies, and analytical methods. Indexed in Scopus and other academic databases.
Learn Technical Photography for Art Examination
Technical Photography is one of the most powerful—and often overlooked—tools for the scientific examination of art and archaeology. If you are a conservator, scientist, or art collector and you are not yet familiar with this method, it is truly a missed opportunity. Using simple, affordable equipment and a clear methodology, Technical Photography allows you to reveal underdrawings, retouchings, material differences, and conservation issues in a completely non-invasive way. Far from being complex or inaccessible, it is an easy entry point into scientific analysis. In many cases, Technical Photography represents the first essential step toward a deeper understanding of artworks and archaeological objects.
Scientific Art Examination – Resources:
Getty Conservation Institute (GCI) – USA
The British Museum – Scientific Research Department – UK
Scientific Research Department – The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, USA
C2RMF (Centre de Recherche et de Restauration des Musées de France) – France
Rijksmuseum – Science Department – Netherlands
