The Adoration of the Magi by Artemisia Gentileschi analyzed with multispectral imaging and XRF technique

Abstract

The results of non-invasive diagnostic analyses of the painting Adoration of the Magi by Artemisia Gentileschi are presented. It was created in the 1630s to decorate the choir of the Cathedral of San Procolo in Pozzuoli (Naples, Italy).

Multispectral imaging at different wavelengths (VIS, IR and UV) and X-ray fluorescence (XRF) were used. The data were integrated and compared with the art historical literature on Artemisia’s activity, especially in Naples after 1630. The research aims to identify the artist’s palette, the materials used, including in the restoration, and the possible influence on the use of color by artists working in Naples at the time. This will enrich the scientific details of the painting and the literature on the famous painter.

The UVF (ultraviolet induced visible fluorescence) images show darker areas on the surface, such as retouching, while the IR image highlights dark outlines that could be traces of brushstrokes and painterly changes.

The XRF technique, together with IRFC (infrared false color) imaging, suggested the pigments and materials used for the paint and preparatory layers. Calcium, strontium, lead and iron were identified as the main characteristic elements of the ground layer. Smalt was suggested for the various shades of blue due to the presence of cobalt in combination with pigments based on ultramarine blue, copper or lead white. Traces of mercury were detected in the red areas, suggesting the use of vermilion with other red pigments. Antimony was found in the yellow areas, indicating the use of Naples yellow, a pigment known to have been used by Artemisia only when she worked in Naples.

Macro-XRF showed that the finger of one hand was made twice. In the first version, lead was detected, while in the second, this element is present together with mercury. Titanium and zinc indicate that the area investigated was restored.