Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Maria Letizia Amadori, Gianluca Poldi, Giulia Germinario, Jgor Arduini, Valeria Mengacci
Summary: This research contributes to the understanding of Renaissance painting materials and techniques, and enables the implementation of a database related to central Italy Renaissance paintings. Investigations on Giovanni Santi's paintings reveal his painting technique, including the type of supports and underdrawing features. Various non-invasive methods, such as multispectral imaging and spectroscopy, were used to analyze the pigments used by Santi, while statistical analysis methods were applied to the acquired dataset to identify characteristic hues and pigments.
APPLIED SCIENCES-BASEL
(2023)
Article
Humanities, Multidisciplinary
Sima Roohi, Parviz Holakooei
Summary: Pigments on four easel paintings by Mohammad Ghaffari were examined using micro-X-ray fluorescence, scanning electron microscopy-energy dispersive X-ray spectrometry, and micro-Raman spectroscopy. Several blue and white pigments were identified, raising questions about the authenticity of the paintings and suggesting possible later interventions. The discussions on Kamal al-Molk's birth date and other milestones further doubted the authenticity of these artworks.
Article
Microbiology
Polona Zalar, Dasa Graf Hribersek, Cene Gostincar, Martin Breskvar, Saso Dzeroski, Mojca Matul, Monika Novak Babic, Jerneja Cremoznik Zupancic, Amela Kujovic, Nina Gunde-Cimerman, Katja Kavkler
Summary: Historically valuable canvas paintings are often exposed to conditions that promote microbial deterioration. In a study of 24 canvas paintings exhibited in Slovenian sacral buildings, a total of 465 cultivable fungi were isolated and identified. The most abundant genus was Aspergillus, but several xerophilic species were also found for the first time in contaminated paintings. Machine learning methods suggested that proteins and cracked paint were important factors for fungal growth.
FRONTIERS IN MICROBIOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Engineering, Electrical & Electronic
Su Yan, Jun-Jie Huang, Herman Verinaz-Jadan, Nathan Daly, Catherine Higgitt, Pier Luigi Dragotti
Summary: Macro X-ray Fluorescence (MA-XRF) scanning is widely used by heritage science researchers to analyze easel paintings. This paper proposes two versions of a fast automatic deconvolution (FAD) method using ADMM and FISTA algorithms. The FAD method automatically analyzes datacubes, produces high-quality element distribution maps, and reduces processing time.
IEEE TRANSACTIONS ON COMPUTATIONAL IMAGING
(2023)
Article
Humanities, Multidisciplinary
Ling Shen, Chenya Wang, Jiachen Zhang, Biao Cui, Suimin Zhu, Jianqiang Mao
Summary: The study found that the green pigment samples are a degradation product of emerald green, and the formation of this product is related to the preservation environment. The results of this work will provide information to understand the degradation processes of emerald green and be a reference for the identification of pigments containing Cu and As elements.
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Javier Moreno-Soto, Anabelle Kriznar, Francisco Jose Ager, Maria Auxiliadora Gomez-Moron, Antonio Gamero-Osuna, Agustin Martin-de-Soto, Miguel Angel Respaldiza
Summary: This study analyzed four canvas paintings attributed to the Zurbaran Workshop, finding that the painting of Saint Peter Martyr had superior quality compared to the others. The results suggest that this particular painting may have been done by Zurbaran himself, rather than his workshop. These findings could also assist in distinguishing authentic paintings by Zurbaran from those created by his workshop or other artists.
SCIENTIFIC REPORTS
(2023)
Article
Microbiology
Cristina Lorena Vacar, Cristina Mircea, Marcel Parvu, Dorina Podar
Summary: This study investigates the biodeteriorative potential of fungi on canvas paintings and finds that fungal metabolic activity and organic acid secretion can cause pigment solubilisation. The Aureobasidium genus exhibits the strongest biodeteriorative capacity, and fungi specialize in utilizing specific types of substrates. Both aged and modern artworks are at risk of fungal biodeterioration.
Article
Chemistry, Analytical
Estibaliz Lama, Nagore Prieto-Taboada, Idoia Etxebarria, Juan Bermejo, Kepa Castro, Gorka Arana, Maria Dolores Rodriguez Laso, Juan Manuel Madariaga
Summary: A multi-analytical approach was used to characterize the mural paintings in Punta Begona galleries in Spain, filling gaps in historical documentation. Various spectroscopic and microdestructive techniques were employed to identify original pigments and nature of paintings, revealing historical details and changing the perception of the heritage. This analytical chemistry study contributes to a deeper understanding of the murals and the building's historical significance.
MICROCHEMICAL JOURNAL
(2021)
Article
Materials Science, Multidisciplinary
Fangnan Zhao, Huiping Xing, Jianwei Wang, Zhihui Jia, Xiaolian Chao, Juanli Wang, Jiaojiao Liu, Yuhu Li
Summary: In this study, a Jiatang scroll painting from the seventh year of Guangxu was analyzed to determine the composition of fibers, pigments, and adhesives. Various techniques including fiber analysis, spectroscopy, and chemical analysis were used. The results provide valuable insights for the future conservation and restoration of this precious cultural heritage.
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Minhong Xu, Guoxiang Pan, Qiang Shen, Yuhua Guo, Mengyu Zhou, Qiu Liang
Summary: In this study, a novel iron oxide green pigment (FePc) was prepared by coating phthalocyanine blue (CuPc) and iron oxide yellow pigments (FeOOH) with sodium metasilicate hydrolysate and silane coupling agent KH602. The pigment showed improved heat resistance, hydrophobicity, and dispersibility. It exhibited good color properties and high near-infrared reflectance, making it suitable for applications in plastics and high-temperature coatings.
APPLIED SURFACE SCIENCE
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Gele Teri, Kezhu Han, Dan Huang, Yanli Li, Yuxiao Tian, Xiaolian Chao, Zhihui Jia, Peng Fu, Yuhu Li
Summary: This study conducted a comprehensive analysis and identification of the beams and ceiling paintings of Puren Temple in order to understand the pigments and adhesives used, providing valuable guidance for future restoration.
Article
Optics
M. A. Volynsky, E. S. Gladkova, I. P. Gurov, E. Zhukova, N. B. Margaryants, S. Sirro, P. S. Skakov
Summary: The article discusses the peculiarities of using optical coherence tomography to examine valuable paintings and presents a full-field optoelectronic system for determining the internal microstructure of inhomogeneous media with high resolution. Examples are provided to show how this technology can be used to determine specific features of the microstructure of antique easel tempera paintings.
JOURNAL OF OPTICAL TECHNOLOGY
(2021)
Article
Humanities, Multidisciplinary
Nathalie Boucherie, Witold Nowik, Nathalie Pingaud
Summary: Recent excavations at the Cahuachi site in Southern Peru have provided new insights into the wall painting tradition in the region. Analysis of the painting materials and techniques used during different phases revealed significant differences between phase III and phase IV.
Article
Chemistry, Applied
A. Macchia, L. Rivaroli, B. Gianfreda
Summary: This study aims to establish the validity of new green solvents to replace toxic solvents in removing old paint varnishes, focusing on the use of acetals. Tests were performed on four different resins to monitor the performance of the solvents and detect residues after cleaning through FTIR spectra.
NATURAL PRODUCT RESEARCH
(2021)
Article
Spectroscopy
Vaclava Antuskova, Radka Sefcu, Petra Sulcova, Zaneta Dohnalova, Jana Luxova, Martina Bajeux Kmonickova, Ivana Turkova, Marek Kotrly
Summary: The research aims to document the variability of Naples yellow pigments in selected artworks by Czech painters. Raman spectroscopy reveals significant differences in the spectra of the pigments, including the presence of hexagonal phase as the dominant phase in some samples, which is surprising considering it is generally considered a minor admixture. The findings suggest that the presence of admixtures and diverse production conditions contribute to the diversity of Naples yellow pigments and their corresponding Raman spectra, making identification challenging. The presented data can serve as a reference for identification purposes.
JOURNAL OF RAMAN SPECTROSCOPY
(2023)
Article
Spectroscopy
Peter Vandenabeele, Catarina Pereira Miguel, Anastasia Rousaki, Silvia Bottura Scardina, Mathilda Larsson-Coutinho, Miriam Pressato, Antonio Candeias
Summary: Raman spectroscopy is widely used in the analysis of art objects due to its non-destructive nature and the availability of mobile instruments. However, the stable positioning required by Raman spectroscopy limits its accessibility to every spot of large artifacts. Therefore, exploring the use of zoom lenses for Raman investigation at different working distances is valuable.
JOURNAL OF RAMAN SPECTROSCOPY
(2023)
Article
Archaeology
Helena P. Melo, Antonio Joao Cruz, Sara Valadas, Ana Margarida Cardoso, Yigit Zafer Helvaci, Antonio Candeias
Summary: This article discusses a panel depicting The Descent from the Cross, painted in 1620 by Portuguese artist Pedro Nunes. It explores the technical aspects of the artwork, including support, preparatory system, and paint layer build-up. Through visual inspection and material analysis, it reveals the innovative use of color and various oil painting techniques employed by Nunes.
STUDIES IN CONSERVATION
(2023)
Article
Spectroscopy
Silvia Bottura-Scardina, Peter Vandenabeele, Catarina Miguel, Antonio Candeias
Summary: This paper explores the use of portable Raman instruments to characterize natural dye lakes in paint mixtures, as an alternative approach to other Raman techniques. The study shows that the typical way of analyzing these materials through SERS or FT Raman spectroscopy is not always desirable in art analysis, thus, the potential of using commercial mobile instruments is explored. The results indicate that the two instruments provide significantly different information.
JOURNAL OF RAMAN SPECTROSCOPY
(2023)
Article
Archaeology
Helena P. Melo, Sara Valadas, Antonio Joao Cruz, Ana Margarida Cardoso, Catarina Miguel, Ana Manhita, Yigit Zafer Helvaci, Cristina Barrocas Dias, Antonio Candeias
Summary: The palette used by Portuguese painter Pedro Nunes in his painting was investigated, revealing the use of two pigments new to Portuguese paintings of the time. This suggests that Nunes' training in Rome influenced his color choices.
STUDIES IN CONSERVATION
(2023)
Review
Microbiology
Antonio Carrapico, Maria Rosario Martins, Ana Teresa Caldeira, Jose Mirao, Luis Dias
Summary: Nanoparticles, especially metal nanoparticles, exhibit unique physical and chemical properties that make them suitable for diverse applications. However, the mechanisms underlying their antimicrobial activities and biosynthesis are still not well determined. This review compiles and proposes evidence-based mechanisms, including enzymatic disturbance by internalized metal ions and the role of reducing and negatively charged molecules. Recent studies on the biosynthesis of metal nanoparticles using microorganisms, particularly bacteria for the synthesis of silver nanoparticles, were summarized and analyzed. Furthermore, the potential use of metal nanoparticles in preserving cultural heritage materials was discussed.
Article
Archaeology
Adam Gaspar, Jan Petrik, Pavel Fojtik, Anna Tsoupra, Basira Mir-Makhamad, Ana Cardoso, Massimo Beltrame, Jose Mirao, Nick Schiavon, Jan Kolar
Summary: The Bell Beaker site near Brodek u Prostejova in Czechia has uncovered a large timber construction accompanied by four ritual deposits containing over fifty ceramic vessels. The vessels are decorated with incised patterns, with some having inlaid white incrustations. A multi-analytical and micro-destructive approach was used to determine the origins and technology of the pottery and the composition of the incrustations. The results suggest that the pottery came from various sources in the region, with the presence of extra-regional fabrics and graphitic temper. The white inlays were made from calcium carbonate, hydroxyapatite, and clay. The unique manufacturing processes and combination of decorative motifs indicate that the site served as a ritual place for multiple communities.
EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF ARCHAEOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Physics, Multidisciplinary
Miriam Pressato, Teresa Lanca, Catarina Miguel, Antonio Candeias, Sara Valadas
Summary: The National Museum of Ancient Art in Lisbon houses the most significant collection of Portuguese art, including a set of six 18th-century Chinese wallpaper panels. These panels depict porcelain production and were donated to the museum in 1949. This study conducted a non-invasive investigation of the panels using portable devices, revealing improper handling and poor conservation conditions. The study also identified the painting technique, main pigments, and their distribution, including the use of inorganic pigments and organic dyes.
EUROPEAN PHYSICAL JOURNAL PLUS
(2023)
Article
Anthropology
HelenaP Melo, Antonio Joao Cruz, Sara Valadas, Antonio Candeias
Summary: The examination using infrared reflectography on two panels of a dismembered altarpiece attributed to Francisco Joao revealed a unique technique in Portuguese painting, where two different subjects were overlapped on a single panel. The study used visible radiation and infrared reflectography to investigate the underdrawing and the materials used. The discovery of this technique provided insights into the working methods of Portuguese mannerist painters.
ARCHAEOLOGICAL AND ANTHROPOLOGICAL SCIENCES
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Fabio Sitzia, Carla Lisci, Vera Pires, Tiago Alves, Jose Mirao
Summary: This study conducted a laboratory simulation of a subarctic climate and assessed the physical/mechanical properties of slates. The results showed a decrease in mechanical performance and changes in physical properties after the climate simulation. Sun exposure experiment revealed no substantial color changes in the slates.
APPLIED SCIENCES-BASEL
(2023)
Article
Humanities, Multidisciplinary
Carla Lisci, Fabio Sitzia, Vera Pires, Marco Aniceto, Jose Mirao
Summary: The long-term endurance of building stones is crucial for their economic and social value. Glossy surfaces are more vulnerable to wear, especially when exposed to slightly acidic rainwater. Hydrophobic treatments may prevent the damage caused by rain, but they are not always durable. This study compares natural aging and artificial weathering to predict the behavior of stones over time.
Article
Construction & Building Technology
Luis Almeida, Antonio Santos Silva, Rosario Veiga, Jose Mirao
Summary: This paper addresses the physical and mechanical characteristics of renders and plasters from selected buildings awarded during the 20th century in Lisbon, Portugal. The study aims to understand the evolution of mortars and determine compatibility requirements for future conservation and restoration interventions.
Article
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
Forough Armal, Luis Dias, Jose Mirao, Vera Pires, Fabio Sitzia, Sergio Martins, Mafalda Costa, Pedro Barrulas
Summary: Water action is the primary cause of stone decay and chromatic changes in stone building materials. Protective eco-friendly hydrophobic coatings are efficient in preventing water penetration into stone. This study investigated different hydrophobic coatings and their correlation with limestone, dolomite, marble, and granitoid to tackle water action. The results show that a coating composed of silane/siloxane with modified fluorinated additives is the most effective, compatible, and durable.
Article
Cell Biology
Benjamin Cappe, Mike Vadi, Eliza Sack, Ludivine Wacheul, Bruno Verstraeten, Sara Dufour, Julien Franck, Wei Xie, Francis Impens, An Hendrix, Denis L. J. Lafontaine, Peter Vandenabeele, Franck B. Riquet
Summary: Formation of extracellular vesicles (EVs) plays a crucial role in cell-to-cell communication, and there are differences in the biogenesis and composition of EVs during different types of cell death processes.
JOURNAL OF EXTRACELLULAR VESICLES
(2023)