- Identify genuine gold gilding based on spectral analysis.
- Differentiate fake gold gilding made from copper and zinc alloys.
- Analyze real-world examples to reinforce identification techniques.
- Genuine gold leaf for reference.
- Sample of fake gold leaf made of copper and zinc.
- Manuscript with gilding for analysis.
- Modern panel painting with gilding.
- Introduction to Gold in Gilding:
- Highlight the use of thin gold leaf and its application in decorative arts.
- Spectral Characteristics of Gold:
- Examine the L Alpha, L Beta, and L Gamma lines of gold and their expected intensity in genuine gilding.
- Identifying Real Gold:
- Analyze the spectrum of a balled-up gold leaf and compare it to a thin gold leaf to demonstrate expected spectral counts.
- Differentiating Fake Gold:
- Study the spectrum of a copper-zinc alloy used as a fake gilding material.
- Case Studies:
- Analyze a manuscript with gilding, identifying the spectral signature of fake gold.
- Examine a modern panel painting replica and observe variations in copper-to-zinc ratios in its fake gilding.
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
