Optical imaging techniques reveal details invisible to the naked eye, while respecting the integrity of the works.
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Optical imaging offers a fine, non-invasive exploration of works of art, revealing elements invisible to the naked eye. It enables us to examine both surface layers (varnish, pigments, retouching) and underlying layers (preparatory drawings, repentirs, hidden signatures), without touching or altering the material.
Particularly well suited to paintings, wall frescoes, ancient manuscripts, decorated or polychrome objects, this imaging method helps to retrace the creative process, identify past interventions and better understand thestate of conservation.
It is a key first step in any study, restoration or authentication protocol.
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Optical imaging methods are non-destructive and non-contact. They respect the conservation constraints of old, fragile or unique works of art. Unlike chemical or physical analysis techniques, they require no sampling.
These tests can easily be integrated into cross-analysis protocols, notably with radiocarbon datingradiocarbon microanalysis or radiography. Together, these techniques offer a complete scientific reading of the object.
CIRAM performs these analyses:
A reliable, scientifically-proven mobile solution for heritage research and preservation.
Request a quoteVisible light examinations are a fundamental first step in the analysis of works of art. They enable us to observe the physical characteristics, surface alterations and certain technical elements linked to the creation or conservation of the object. CIRAM uses three complementary types of imaging:
These techniques, which are entirely non-destructive, enhance the visual diagnosis and provide invaluable clues as to the condition, material history and manufacture of the works.
UV fluorescence imaging exploits the properties of certain pigments and varnishes to emit specific light when subjected to ultraviolet radiation. This technique is particularly valuable for analyzing paintings, manuscripts and polychrome objects.
It reveals essential information about the state of conservation of the works :
An essential diagnostic tool, UV fluorescence illuminates areas of interest to guide restoration work or alert us to any old interventions.
IR reflectography can be used to examine the deeper layers of a pictorial work using a high-definition infrared camera. By penetrating the upper layers, this radiation reveals what is invisible to the naked eye.
It is used for :
The preferred tool of art experts, IR reflectography is an invaluable aid to authentication and the study of the creative process.
For more than 20 years, CIRAM has been supporting museums, galleries, art market experts and archaeologists in their scientific heritage analysis projects. Thanks to a unique combination of scientific skills and state-of-the-art equipment, CIRAM guarantees examinations adapted to each work, whatever its format or state of conservation.
Technologies used include :
These techniques can be combined with each other or with complementary methods such as carbon-14 dating, pigment analysis, microanalysis or radiography. In the case of paintings, such cross-referencing is often necessary to confirm attribution hypotheses or reveal the exact nature of an ancient treatment.
Each intervention is accompanied by an illustrated scientific report, adapted to the challenges of conservation, authentication or enhancement of the work.
Contact our teamsPaintings, frescoes, manuscripts, decorated or polychrome objects.
No. These are non-invasive, non-contact methods, perfectly suited to conservation requirements.
Before restoration, to guide interventions; during appraisal or attribution; or in a museographic or scientific context.
Yes, CIRAM combines optical imaging with other methods (dating, radiography, microanalysis) for a complete study.
Yes, our teams travel with portable equipment and carry out analyses in situ, while respecting conservation conditions.
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