Multispectral image processing of paintings

Year: 1988

Authors: Aldrovandi A., Bertani D., Cetica M., Matteini M., Moles A., Poggi P., Tiano P.

Autors Affiliation: Istituto Nazionale di Ottica, Largo E. Fermi 6, 50125 Firenze, Italy;
Opificio delle Pietre Dure e Laboratori di Restauro, Firenze

Abstract: A reflectographic apparatus, equipped with an image processor, has been used to obtain a trichromatic image of paintings comprehensive of both visible and infrared (700-1000nm) regions. The first step has been to reproduce with MIPP (multispectral image processing of paintings) images similar to those obtained with IR Kodak colour film. A good discrimination of both pigments and overpainting is possible with this technique which operates in a more flexible and powerful way than IR ‘false colour’ photography. Results are shown relative to a test panel and a tempera painting with extensive overpaint. The possibility of utilizing this technique to correlate a single pigment with its MIPP image is now under investigation.

Journal/Review: STUDIES IN CONSERVATION

Volume: 33 (3)      Pages from: 154  to: 159

KeyWords: multispectral image
DOI: 10.1179/sic.1988.33.3.154