Raking light Photography (RAK)
Raking light photography is a useful method for the examination of works of art and archaeology. It is part of the Technical Photography documentation and allows to detect and document surface features. RAK is used to document retouching and losses in paintings, as well as to study the painting technique, since it makes clear the brush work and the layering of the paints.
Applications in Art examination
Experimental Set up
References
| Publications on Raking light Photography (RAK) |
|---|
| A. Cosentino, M. Gil, M. Ribeiro, R. Di Mauro “Technical Photography for mural paintings: the newly discovered frescoes in Aci Sant’Antonio (Sicily, Italy)” Conservar Património 20, 23–33, 2014. |
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
Case Studies using RAK Photography
20th-century serigraph print
19th-century icon “Feast of the Pokrov (Protection) of the Veil of the Mother of God”
