- Understand the historical importance of cobalt in art and its role in pigment production.
- Analyze the XRF spectral features of cobalt and its various compounds.
- Reference samples of cobalt-based pigments in Pigments Checker STANDARD (e.g., smalt, cobalt blue, cobalt cerulean blue).
- XRF spectroscopy equipment with Routine filter setup.
- Discuss the historical use of cobalt, beginning with smalt in the 15th century.
- Highlight the development of cobalt-based pigments in the 19th century, including cobalt blue, cobalt cerulean blue, cobalt chromite blue, and others.
- Explain the enduring relevance of cobalt pigments in modern art.
- Introduce the key XRF lines for cobalt: Kα at 6.9 keV and Kβ at 7.7 keV.
- Explain the impact of different XRF filter setups (low-keV vs. routine) on signal strength and spectrum clarity.
- Examine the XRF spectra of smalt, demonstrating strong signals using low-keV filters and acceptable detection with routine filters.
- Discuss the varying XRF signals of other cobalt-based pigments, from cobalt violet (strongest signal) to cobalt cerulean blue (weakest signal).
To reinforce the concepts discussed here, we also provide a video lesson that visually walks through the key points of this topic. Watching the video alongside the text can help you better understand and apply these ideas in practice.
The course XRF Spectroscopy for Art Examination introduces conservators, art historians, and scientists with interest in Art to the principles and practical applications of X-ray fluorescence (XRF) spectroscopy in the examination of artworks. The course starts with basic principles of XRF and gradually explores its role in identifying materials and methods used in the creation and conservation of art.
Course Objectives
- Understand the fundamentals of XRF spectroscopy and how it applies to the analysis of art.
- Learn the key features and limitations of XRF for examining art and archaeology.
- Gain skills in interpreting XRF spectra to identify specific elements in paint layers, inks and metals.
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
