Optical Coherence Tomography for non-destructive investigations of structure of easel paintings

Abstract

In this contribution the application of Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) for non-invasive structural imaging of easel paintings will be presented. Since the technique permits imaging semi-transparent layers accessible for infrared light, the varnish and glaze layers are usually under investigation. The major emphasis will be laid on application of OCT to resolving specific conservation problems, arising during the restoration process. The examples of imaging multilayer varnishes and subsequent alterations will be given and the application of these images for authentication of inscriptions will be discussed. Since the thickness of imaged layers may be directly measured with OCT in completely non-destructive, quick and convenient way as many times as necessary, the application of the technique to generation of varnish thickness maps will be presented.