The Importance of Being Versatile: INFN-CHNet MA-XRF Scanner on Furniture at the CCR “La Venaria Reale”

Abstract

At present, the use of non-destructive, non-invasive X-ray-based techniques is well established in heritage science for the analysis and conservation of works of art. X-ray fluorescence (XRF) plays a fundamental role since it provides information on the elemental composition, contributing to the identification of the materials present on the superficial layers of an artwork. Whenever XRF is combined with the capability of scanning an area to provide the elemental distribution on a surface, the technique is referred to as macro X-ray fluorescence (MA-XRF). The heritage science field, in which the technique is extensively applied, presents a large variety of case studies. Typical examples are paintings, ceramics, metallic objects and manuscripts. This work presents an uncommon application of MA-XRF analysis to furniture. Measurements have been carried out with the MA-XRF scanner of the INFN-CHNet collaboration at the Centro di Conservazione e Restauro “La Venaria Reale”, a leading conservation centre in the field. In particular, a chinoiserie lacquered cabinet of the 18th century and a desk by Pietro Piffetti (1701–1777) have been analysed with a focus on the characterisation of decorative layers and different materials (e.g., gilding in the former and ivory in the latter). The measurements have been carried out using a telemeter for non-planar surfaces, and with collimators of 0.8 mm and 0.4 mm diameter, depending on the spatial resolution needed. The combination of the small measuring head with the use of the telemeter and of a small collimator has guaranteed the ability to scan difficult-to-reach areas with high spatial resolution in a reasonable time (20 × 10 mm2 with 0.2 mm step in less than 20 min).

The Role of PIXE and XRF in Heritage Science: The INFN-CHNet LABEC Experience

“…Further type of works of art analysed with this instrument are Venetian illuminated manuscripts [56], furniture of the XVIII century [57], and French ceramics [58].…”

Macro X-ray fluorescence analysis of XVI-XVII century Italian paintings and preliminary test for developing a combined fluorescence apparatus with digital radiography

“…The instrument has already been used for a number of different applications, i.e. paintings [18]- [21], illuminated manuscripts [22], coins [23], ceramics [24], and furniture [25].…”

Contribution of X-ray Fluorescence Techniques in Cultural Heritage Materials Characterization

“…Also in this case, MA-XRF proved to be a powerful technique that can be easily utilized as an early noninvasive and non-destructive analytical method as a guide for a subsequent, more accurate, scientific analysis. The same scanner was used in the work by Sottili et al [6] for an uncommon application to furniture at the Centro di Conservazione e Restauro "La Venaria Reale" (Turin, Italy), a leading conservation center in the field. The use of the MA-XRF technique on furniture has provided information on the elemental-spatial distribution of the decorative layers, such as gilding and ivory, on the polychromatic surfaces of a chinoiserie lacquered cabinet of the 18th century and a desk by Pietro Piffetti (1701-1777).…”