Use of X-rays to control art pieces

Let's focus on a less conventional aspect of NDT: The NDT for cultural heritage.

For over a century, scientists and historians agreed on the use of the Roentgen invention to perfect our knowledge of art pieces.

Radiography provides essential information on the present condition of the works of art, on the techniques of manufacturing or assembly which have been used to make them, and on the evolution of pieces of art over time (anterior restorations / degradation over time). 

Many museums use radiography equipment not only to analyze paintings but also sculptures and mummies.

Radiographs of works of art have also brought surprises (superimposed paintings…) and have allowed a better understanding of the life of the artists. For example, we can mention "A patch of grass" of VAN GOGH (Kröller-Müller Museum, Otterlo, Netherlands) that hides the portrait of a peasant woman painted a few years ago before the famous painting.

Radiography also has in some cases led to authenticate an original painting from several copies examining the accuracy of strokes.

The EXTENDE's team