Photo documentation and technical analysis

XRF spectroscopy is a non-invasive analytical technique that identifies the elemental composition of pigments, alloys, coatings, and other materials present in an artwork. The instrument detects characteristic X-ray emissions from each element—allowing conservators to map pigments, identify historic materials, and distinguish original passages from later additions.

Why it’s used:
XRF is a cornerstone of technical art history and conservation science. It provides insight into:

• Pigment identification (e.g., lead white, cadmium pigments, iron oxides)
• Attribution and dating through material comparison
• Detection of restorations or later overpaint
• Understanding artist technique and material choices
• Supporting ethical treatment decisions with accurate material data

What ACT Art Conservation provides:

• Point analysis & pigment mapping to visualize material distribution
• Elemental spectra review with clear, readable summaries
• Professional data interpretation grounded in conservation science, technical art history, and comparative material analysis
• Treatment-focused recommendations informed by the results (cleaning systems, stabilization needs, compatibility concerns, etc.)

Rates upon request

Infrared Reflectography uses infrared wavelengths to penetrate certain paint layers, revealing underdrawings, compositional changes, previous restorations, and artist working methods.

UV Fluorescence imaging, commonly known as Black Light tests, exposes the artwork to ultraviolet light, causing materials such as varnishes, overpaint, adhesives, and surface residues to fluoresce in characteristic ways.

Ultraviolet Reflected photography captures the UV light reflected back from the artwork rather than the fluorescence.
Why it’s used: UVR can help differentiate pigments, coatings, and surface treatments that respond uniquely under UV, assisting in material identification and documentation.

Standard visible photography using controlled, calibrated lighting to document the artwork before, during, and after treatment.
Why it’s used: Produces accurate, archival-quality documentation for condition reporting, insurance, legal records, and client archives.

Directional light is cast across the surface at a low angle to highlight texture, deformations, cracking, cupping, and surface irregularities.
Why it’s used: Reveals structural issues, planar distortions, lifting paint, and surface topography critical for conservation assessment.

Captures light reflecting off the surface to show gloss variations, varnish inconsistencies, scratches, and surface coatings.

Light is passed through the artwork (when possible, typically works on paper or thin panels) to illuminate internal features.
Why it’s used: Useful for detecting tears, thinning, watermarks, previous repairs, or structural weaknesses not visible from the surface.

High-magnification imaging used to examine pigments, crack patterns, fibers, binder residues, and tool marks.
Why it’s used: Supports materials analysis, authentication, and informed decisions about consolidants, cleaning systems, and adhesives.