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Detecting a sculpture copy

CIRAM detects sculpture copies through rigorous scientific analysis, guaranteeing the authenticity of your works.

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Would you like to know whether a sculpture is a copy?

Would you like to know whether a sculpture is a copy?

Do you have doubts about theauthenticity of a sculpture? Whether it's an antique bronze, a signed marble or a wooden sculpture, doubts about authenticity can quickly arise.

Uncertain provenance, suspect manufacturing techniques, anachronistic materials or too uniform a patina... To remove any uncertainty, only a rigorous scientific analysis can settle the matter.

CIRAM supports museums, collectors and experts with precise analysis methods, so you can authenticate your works with confidence and make the right decisions.

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They trust us

Leading museums and art professionals trust us to authenticate their objects.

The National Gallery
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Pasteur Institute
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Our analysis techniques for verifying the authenticity of a sculpture

Our analysis techniques for verifying the authenticity of a sculpture

To distinguish an original sculpture from a copy, CIRAM mobilizes a range of scientific techniques adapted to the nature and period of the sculpture under analysis.

  1. Our specialists begin by identifying the constituent materials (bronze, marble, wood, ivory, etc.) through in-depth physico-chemical analysis. Where possible, radiocarbon radiocarbon dating to estimate the age of organic elements, such as wood.
  2. We also study manufacturing methods: tool marks, molds, assemblies or welds can reveal the use of modern techniques incompatible with the presumed period of creation.
  3. Finally, surface analysis enables us to assess the composition of patinas, varnishes or oxidations, to detect any tampering or restorations.

Each technique is selected according to the specifics of the work, to guarantee reliable and relevant results.

Find out more about our analysis methods

How does CIRAM detect a sculpture copy?

At CIRAM, the analysis process is based on a rigorous, multi-stage methodology.

01 - Defining your needs

We start with an in-depth discussion to understand your needs: doubts about authenticity, lack of documentation, upcoming sale or restoration.

02 - Choice of techniques

We then define the techniques to be used according to the nature of the sculpture.

03 - Laboratory analysis

The sculpture can be analyzed in situ or sampled under carefully supervised conditions. Where necessary, a non-destructive sampling protocol is proposed to respect the integrity of the piece.

04 - Interpretation of results

Once the results have been obtained, you receive a clear, usable report with conclusions backed up by scientific data.

Why choose CIRAM for sculpture authentication?

When you choose CIRAM, you choose a trusted, independent scientific partner, recognized for its expertise in the art market. For over 20 years, we have supported museums, auction houses, collectors and restorers in verifying the authenticity of sculpted works.

Our state-of-the-art equipment, strict protocols and multidisciplinary approach (chemists, physicists, archaeologists) guarantee reliable results that can be interpreted and accepted in a legal or heritage context.

With CIRAM, you benefit from expert, confidential and transparent support to help you make informed decisions about your acquisitions or collections.

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Are you asking yourself these questions?

What are the most common signs of a sculpture copy?

Uniform patina, modern materials, absence of traces of traditional tools or unclear provenance are all clues that may indicate a copy.

Can a copy be old?

Yes, some copies date back to modern times or even antiquity. An analysis can help to date the materials and understand the context of creation.

Can a copy be detected without damaging the sculpture?

Yes, CIRAM favors non-destructive or micro-invasive methods to preserve the integrity of the work.

How long does a complete analysis take?

On average, between 10 and 15 working days, depending on the complexity of the work and the techniques involved.

What results does CIRAM deliver following analysis?

A clear and detailed report, including the scientific results, their interpretation, and a conclusion on compatibility with the era in which the alleged perpetrator was born.

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Get all the answers to your questions!

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