Materials and Characterization Techniques in Conservation of Works of Art

General Foundation

Upon completion of the course, the students will: be familiar with the nature of the materials used in works of art (murals, paintings, ceramics, glasses, etc.) as well as with their construction techniques. be familiar with basic methods of materials characterization (FTIR spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, UV-Vis, thermal analysis, X-rays, SEM microscopy-EDS etc) have understood the necessity of using analytical methods to solve problems of preservation, authenticity, etc. have received insights from laboratories of international large museums and will have visited some of the museum laboratories of Thessaloniki. will be able to perform a literature research and compose a report regarding studies, i.e. issues in the field of works of art in combination with the use of appropriate techniques.

MODULE 1 (6 Hours): History and principles of restoration. Studies on the authenticity of artifacts. The effects of microclimate on the monuments (particularly byzantine monuments). MODULE 2 (9 Hours): Characterization techniques applied in the study of cultural objects (Microscopies, X-Ray Diffraction analysis and fluorescence, Infrared spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, Optically stimulated luminescence and Thermoluminesence, Laser applications, SIMS method, neutron activation analysis, Radiocarbon dating using the 14C isotope technique, Thermal analysis, micro- and macro- photography in visible, ultraviolet and infrared light, and others). MODULE 3 (12 Hours): Materials of the artifacts which are studied and restored with the aforementioned techniques (along with examples): Murals and portable icons, Ceramics (technology, corrosion, restoration), Glass, Marble, Porcelain, Ancient and historic metallic artifacts, gold objects, Coins, Paper, Mosaics, Textiles, Wooden objects (wooden iconostases), and others. MODULE 4 (9 Hours): Examples applications of restoring famous artists’ artifacts, and study of their artistic work. Modern materials used in conservation of works of art (e.g. epoxy resins, etc.).

22-02-2022