Fossil wood samples dated by the CIRAM laboratory
CIRAM has dated two fossilized pieces of wood, whose exceptional state of preservation is due in part to the fact that they were buried in a humid, oxygen-poor environment.

CIRAM uses scientific imaging to reveal the hidden face of art objects, without alteration or removal. It enables :
Thanks to this expertise, CIRAM offers a precise visual diagnosis, invaluable for restorers, conservators and experts.
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In the archaeological context, scientific imaging opens up new perspectives:
CIRAM supports archaeologists in the field and in the laboratory for a complete, respectful and scientific reading of heritage.
Contact our teamsOptical imaging enables the surface and underlying layers of artwork to be examined without contact or sampling. CIRAM uses :
These examinations are invaluable for understanding the creative process, authenticating a work or guiding restoration. Non-destructive and available on site or in the laboratory, these techniques provide curators and experts with a precise and reliable reading of pictorial or manuscript works.
Read moreX-ray techniques enable us to explore the interior of an object without damaging it:
These technologies are used alone or in conjunction with other methods such as thermoluminescence datingand are adapted to the specific needs of art, archaeology and conservation professionals.
For nearly 20 years, CIRAM has put its interdisciplinary expertise at the service of heritage professionals: museums, archaeologists, restorers, auction houses and collectors.
Our equipment - X-ray, CT scan, UV fluorescence, infrared reflectography, grazing light - is deployed in the laboratory or on site, depending on the constraints of the object and the objectives of the project.
Each mission is carried out with absolute scientific rigor, and results in a report that can be used by heritage and art market professionals. art market.
It can detect restorations, identify hidden signatures, reveal preparatory drawings and analyze materials non-intrusively.
It makes it possible to study artifacts without altering them, and to carry out virtual excavations on sealed or fragile objects.
Yes, our portable equipment enables us to intervene directly in museums, on archaeological sites or at a collector's home.
This depends on the analysis required, but we are committed to delivering results as quickly as possible.
Paintings, sculptures, ceramics, manuscripts, archaeological objects and historical furniture.
CIRAM has dated two fossilized pieces of wood, whose exceptional state of preservation is due in part to the fact that they were buried in a humid, oxygen-poor environment.
An indispensable dating method, carbon-14, or radiocarbon, is used to date archaeological artifacts, authenticate works of art, or measure bio-based content.
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