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Author Marchetti, A.; Beltran, V.; Storme, P.; Nuyts, G.; Van Der Meeren, L.; Skirtach, A.; Otten, E.; Debulpaep, M.; Watteeuw, L.; De Wael, K.
Title All that glitters is not gold : unraveling the material secrets behind the preservation of historical brass Type A1 Journal article
Year 2023 Publication Journal of cultural heritage Abbreviated Journal
Volume 63 Issue Pages 179-186
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Art; History; Antwerp Cultural Heritage Sciences (ARCHES); Antwerp Electrochemical and Analytical Sciences Lab (A-Sense Lab)
Abstract Brass is a relatively stable alloy but it tends to tarnish over time due to the interaction with the atmosphere. Thus, it is rare to observe centuries-old brass objects untouched by the passing of time. For this reason, the pristine appearance of hundreds of brass sequins in the Enclosed Gardens of Mechelen (reliquary altarpieces produced between 1530 and 1550) is remarkable. In this study, the chemical and metallographic characterization of such unexpectedly well-preserved objects is presented. The results revealed the reason for their stability to be a combination of high-quality materials (i.e. medium Zn content, low impurities) and optimal surface properties (i.e. high homogeneity, low roughness), indicating the high level of expertise of the craftsmen who produced them. Novel fundamental insights on the historical manufacturing method of metallic sequins were also obtained.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 001058894000001 Publication Date 2023-08-14
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1296-2074 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record
Impact Factor 3.1 Times cited Open Access (up) Not_Open_Access: Available from 15.08.2024
Notes Approved Most recent IF: 3.1; 2023 IF: 1.838
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:198113 Serial 8830
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