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

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 x 10 mm(2) with 0.2 mm step in less than 20 min).

Automated summary

Non-destructive X-ray techniques, particularly MA-XRF, have been widely used in heritage science for the analysis and conservation of works of art. This technique provides information on elemental composition and distribution on the surface of various cultural artifacts, such as paintings, ceramics, metallic objects, and manuscripts. The combination of XRF with scanning capabilities allows for detailed analysis of materials and decorative layers with high spatial resolution and efficiency.