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Author van Loon, A.; Noble, P.; de Man, D.; Alfeld, M.; Callewaert, T.; van der Snickt, G.; Janssens, K.; Dik, J.
Title The role of smalt in complex pigment mixtures in Rembrandt'sHomer1663: combining MA-XRF imaging, microanalysis, paint reconstructions and OCT Type A1 Journal article
Year 2020 Publication Heritage science Abbreviated Journal
Volume 8 Issue 1 Pages 90-19
Keywords A1 Journal article; Art; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation); Antwerp Cultural Heritage Sciences (ARCHES)
Abstract As part of the NWO Science4ArtsREVISRembrandtproject (2012-2018), novel chemical imaging techniques were developed and applied to the study of Rembrandt's late experimental painting technique (1651-1669). One of the unique features in his late paintings is his abundant use of smalt: a blue cobalt glass pigment that he often combined with organic lake pigments, earth pigments and blacks. Since most of these smalt-containing paints have discolored over time, we wanted to find out more about how these paintings may have originally looked, and what the role of smalt was in his paint. This paper reports on the use of smalt in complex pigment mixtures in Rembrandt'sHomer(1663), Mauritshuis, The Hague. Macroscopic X-ray fluorescence imaging (MA-XRF) assisted by computational analysis, in combination with SEM-EDX analysis of paint cross-sections, provides new information about the distribution and composition of the smalt paints in the painting. Paint reconstructions were carried out to investigate the effect of different percentages of smalt on the overall color, the drying properties, translucency and texture of the paint. Results show that the influence of (the originally blue) smalt on the intended color of the paint of theHomeris minimal. However, in mixtures with high percentages of smalt, or when combined with more transparent pigments, it was concluded that the smalt did produce a cooler and darker paint. It was also found that the admixture of opaque pigments reduced the translucent character of the smalt. The drying tests show that the paints with (cobalt-containing) smalt dried five times faster compared to those with glass (without cobalt). Most significantly, the texture of the paint was strongly influenced by adding smalt, creating a more irregular surface topography with clearly pronounced brushstrokes. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) was used as an additional tool to reveal differences in translucency and texture between the different paint reconstructions. In conclusion, this study confirmed earlier assumptions that Rembrandt used substantial amounts of smalt in his late paintings, not for its blue color, but to give volume and texture to his paints, to deepen their colors and to make them dry faster.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000565893700001 Publication Date 2020-09-04
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 2050-7445 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 2.5 Times cited Open Access
Notes (up) Approved Most recent IF: 2.5; 2020 IF: NA
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:171995 Serial 8659
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Author Vanmeert, F.; Van der Snickt, G.; Legrand, S.; Janssens, K.
Title Velázquez? A portrait of Pope Innocent X : an X-ray imaging investigation (II) Type H3 Book chapter
Year 2019 Publication Abbreviated Journal
Volume Issue Pages 132-141 T2 - Velázquez : Anregungen, Vorschläge, L
Keywords H3 Book chapter; Art; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
Abstract Encompassing a broad spectrum of methodological approaches and aims, the scholars contributing to this volume offer renewed perspectives on the multifaceted oeuvre of Diego Velázquez. The seventeenth-century artist’s exceptional religious works as well as his numerous portraits are examined within the social and historical context of Velázquez’s milieu which included both the Spanish court as well as circles comprising important intellectual figures of his time. Following a close investigation of his works, which also includes the results of recent technological examinations on his paintings, the contributors to this volume offer new, exciting findings and discussions on the inspirations, sources and possible intentions of Velázquez.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos Publication Date
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN ISBN 978-3-99020-155-8 Additional Links UA library record
Impact Factor Times cited Open Access
Notes (up) Approved no
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:190783 Serial 8736
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Author Ortega Saez, N.; Arno, R.; Marchetti, A.; Cauberghs, S.; Janssens, K.; Van der Snickt, G.; Al-Emam, E.
Title Towards a novel strategy for soot removal from water-soluble materials : the synergetic effect of hydrogels and cyclomethicone on gelatine emulsion-based photographs Type A1 Journal article
Year 2023 Publication Heritage science Abbreviated Journal
Volume 11 Issue 1 Pages 78-17
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; Art; Antwerp Cultural Heritage Sciences (ARCHES); Antwerp X-ray Imaging and Spectroscopy (AXIS)
Abstract Gels are a popular cleaning method for paper conservators and a lot of research has been done concerning gel cleaning of paper objects over the last 15 years. Despite the close interconnection between the conservation fields of paper and photographic material, research on using gels for cleaning photographs is very scarce. However, gels can provide an excellent cleaning method for photographic material. Cleaning silver gelatine prints with aqueous solvents is very complex due to the hydrophilic properties and fragility of the gelatine layer which makes mechanical cleaning difficult. The properties of gels ensure better control over the flow and evaporation of the solvent, facilitating the cleaning process. This study is the first insight into the viability of using gellan gum gel and polyvinyl acetate-borax (PVAc-borax) gel to clean contaminants from the surface of silver gelatine photographs. It is based on self-made samples that were artificially aged and contaminated with soot. Water, ethanol (EtOH), and Kodak Photo-flo were studied as solvents to remove the soot from the silver gelatine-based prints. These solvents were loaded into the aforementioned gels and applied to the samples in two different methods. These gel cleaning methods were subsequently compared with traditional cleaning methods. In addition, the usage of cyclomethicone D4 as a protective mask for the gelatine layer was studied. Measuring methods used to evaluate the cleaning were visual comparison, microscopic observation, and densitometry. ATR-FTIR measurements were also conducted to investigate potential side-effects of the cleaning methods on the prints, such as unwanted chemical transformations or the presence of gel residues after the treatments. Most of the gel cleaning methods within this study proved to be inadequate, with the exception of the gellan gum gel loaded with 30% EtOH. It was used as a granulated gel applied mechanically on a print saturated with cyclomethicone (octamethylcyclotetrasiloxane D4). Cyclomethicone proved to be a very effective protective barrier for the water-sensitive gelatine layer with minimal reduction in cleaning effectiveness.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000970139500001 Publication Date 2023-04-18
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 2050-7445 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 2.5 Times cited Open Access OpenAccess
Notes (up) Approved Most recent IF: 2.5; 2023 IF: NA
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:196445 Serial 8945
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Author Derks, K.; Youchaeva, M.; Van der Snickt, G.; Van der Stighelen, K.; Janssens, K.
Title Reconstructing Sweerts : practical insights into the historical dark halo technique based on paint reconstructions Type P1 Proceeding
Year 2024 Publication Abbreviated Journal
Volume Issue Pages 259-271 T2 - Alla maniera : technical art history
Keywords P1 Proceeding; Engineering sciences. Technology; Art; Antwerp Cultural Heritage Sciences (ARCHES); Antwerp X-ray Imaging and Spectroscopy (AXIS)
Abstract
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos Publication Date
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 978-90-429-5216-4 ISBN Additional Links UA library record
Impact Factor Times cited Open Access
Notes (up) Approved Most recent IF: NA
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:203062 Serial 9082
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Author Deleu, N.; Hillen, M.; Steenackers, G.; Borms, G.; Janssens, K.; Van der Stighelen, K.; Van der Snickt, G.
Title Combined macro X-ray fluorescence (MA-XRF) and pulse phase thermography (PPT) imaging for the technical study of panel paintings Type A1 Journal article
Year 2024 Publication Talanta : the international journal of pure and applied analytical chemistry Abbreviated Journal
Volume 270 Issue Pages 125533-11
Keywords A1 Journal article; Art; Antwerp Cultural Heritage Sciences (ARCHES); Antwerp X-ray Imaging and Spectroscopy (AXIS)
Abstract Museum staff usually relies on a proven combination of X-ray radiography (XRR) and infrared reflectography (IRR) to study paintings in a non-destructive manner. In the last decades, however, the research toolbox of heritage scientists has expanded considerably, with a prime example being macro X-ray fluorescence (MA-XRF), producing element-specific images. The goal of this article is to illustrate the added value of augmenting MA-XRF with pulse phase thermography (PPT), a variant of active infrared thermographic imaging (IRT), which is an innovative diagnostic method that is able to reveal variations between or in materials, based on a different response to minor fluctuations in temperature when irradiated with optical radiation. By examining three 16thand 17th-century panel paintings we assess the extent in which combined MA-XRF and PPT contributes to a better understanding of two commonly encountered interventions to panel paintings: (a) Anstuckungen (enlargement of the panel) or (b) substitutions (replacement of part of the panel). Yielding information from different depths of the painting, these two techniques proved highly complementary with IRR and XRR, expanding the understanding of the build-up, genesis, and material history of the paintings. While MA-XRF documented the interventions to the wooden substrate indirectly by revealing variations in painting materials, paint handling and/ or layer sequence between the original part and the extended or replaced planks, PPT proved beneficial for the study of the wooden support itself, by providing a clear image of the wood structure quasi-free of distortion by the superimposed paint or cradling. XRR, on the other hand, revealed other features from the wood structure, not visible with PPT, and allowed looking through the wooden panels, revealing e.g. the dowels used for joining the planks. Additionally, IRR visualised dissimilarities in the underdrawings. In this way, the results indicate that PPT has the potential to become an acknowledged add-on to the expanding set of imaging methods for paintings, especially when used in combination with MA-XRF, IRR and XRR.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 001144098200001 Publication Date 2023-12-09
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0039-9140; 1873-3573 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record
Impact Factor 6.1 Times cited Open Access
Notes (up) Approved Most recent IF: 6.1; 2024 IF: 4.162
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:203764 Serial 9193
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Author Cagno, S.; van der Snickt, G.; Legrand, S.; Caen, J.; Patin, M.; Meulebroeck, W.; Dirkx, Y.; Hillen, M.; Steenackers, G.; Rousaki, A.; Vandenabeele, P.; Janssens, K.
Title Comparison of four mobile, non‐invasive diagnostic techniques for differentiating glass types in historical leaded windows : MA‐XRF , UV–Vis–NIR, Raman spectroscopy and IRT Type A1 Journal article
Year 2020 Publication X-Ray Spectrometry Abbreviated Journal X-Ray Spectrom
Volume Issue Pages xrs.3185-17
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation); Antwerp Cultural Heritage Sciences (ARCHES)
Abstract This paper critically compares the performance of four non-invasive techniques that match the accuracy, flexibility, time-efficiency, and transportability required for in situ characterization of leaded glass windows: macroscopic X-ray fluorescence imaging (MA-XRF), UV-Vis-NIR, Raman spectroscopy, and infrared thermography (IRT). In order to compare the techniques on equal grounds, all techniques were tested independently of each other by separate research groups on the same historical leaded window tentatively dated to the 17th century, without prior knowledge. The aim was to assess the ability of these techniques to document the conservation history of the window by classifying and grouping the colorless glass panes, based on differences in composition. IRT, MA-XRF and UV-Vis-NIR spectroscopy positively distinguished at least two glass groups, with MA-XRF providing the most detailed chemical information. In particular, based on the ratio between the network modifier (K) and network stabilizer (Ca) and on the level of colorants and decolorizers (Fe, Mn, As), the number of plausible glass families could be strongly reduced. In addition, UV-Vis-NIR detected cobalt at ppm level and gave more specific information on the chromophore Fe2+/Fe(3+)ratio. Raman spectroscopy was hampered by fluorescence caused by the metal ions of the decolorizer in most of the panes, but nevertheless identified one group as HLLA.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000561869600001 Publication Date 2020-08-24
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0049-8246 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 1.2 Times cited Open Access
Notes (up) ; Belgian Federal Science Policy Office, Grant/Award Number: BR/175/A3/FENESTRA; Fonds Wetenschappelijk Onderzoek, Grant/Award Number: 12X1919N; Baillet-Latour Fund ; Approved Most recent IF: 1.2; 2020 IF: 1.298
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:170972 Serial 6473
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Author van der Snickt, G.; Martins, A.; Delaney, J.; Janssens, K.; Zeibel, J.; Duffy, M.; McGlinchey, C.; Van Driel, B.; Dik, J.
Title Exploring a hidden painting below the surface of Rene Magritte's Le Portrait Type A1 Journal article
Year 2016 Publication Applied spectroscopy Abbreviated Journal Appl Spectrosc
Volume 70 Issue 1 Pages 57-67
Keywords A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
Abstract Two state-of-the-art methods for non-invasive visualization of subsurface (or overpainted) pictorial layers present in painted works of art are employed to study Le portrait, painted by Belgian artist Rene Magritte in 1935. X-ray radiography, a commonly used method for the nondestructive inspection of paintings, had revealed the presence of an underlying figurative composition, part of an earlier Magritte painting entitled La pose enchantee (1927) which originally depicted two full length nude female figures with exaggerated facial features. On the one hand, macroscopic X-ray fluorescence analysis (MA-XRF), a method capable of providing information on the distribution of the key chemical elements present in many artists' pigments, was employed. The ability of the X-rays to penetrate the upper layer of paint enabled the imaging of the facial features of the female figure and provided information on Magritte's palette for both surface and hidden composition. On the other hand, visible and near infrared hyperspectral imaging spectroscopies in transmission mode were also used, especially in the area of the table cloth in order to look through the upper representation and reveal the pictorial layer(s) below. MA-XRF provided elemental information on the pigment distributions in both the final painting and the prior whereas the transmission mode provided information related to preparatory sketches as well as revealing differences between the paints used in both compositions. These results illustrate very well the manner in which the two imaging methods complement each other, both in the sense of providing different types of information on the nature and presence of paint components/pigments and in the sense of being optimally suited to easily penetrate through different types of overpaint.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000368604500007 Publication Date 2016-01-27
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0003-7028 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 1.529 Times cited 13 Open Access
Notes (up) ; GvdS and KJ acknowledge the support of the Fund Inbev-Baillet Latour. JKD acknowledges support from the Andrew Mellon Foundation and the National Science Foundation. BvD and JD acknowledge support from The Netherlands Organisation for Scientific Research (NWO). ; Approved Most recent IF: 1.529
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:131544 Serial 5620
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Author De Meyer, S.; Vanmeert, F.; Vertongen, R.; Van Loon, A.; Gonzalez, V.; Delaney, J.; Dooley, K.; Dik, J.; van der Snickt, G.; Vandivere, A.; Janssens, K.
Title Macroscopic x-ray powder diffraction imaging reveals Vermeer's discriminating use of lead white pigments in Girl with a Pearl Earring Type A1 Journal article
Year 2019 Publication Science Advances Abbreviated Journal
Volume 5 Issue 8 Pages eaax1975
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation); Antwerp Cultural Heritage Sciences (ARCHES)
Abstract Until the 19th century, lead white was the most important white pigment used in oil paintings. Lead white is typically composed of two crystalline lead carbonates: hydrocerussite [2PbCO(3)center dot Pb(OH)(2)] and cerussite (PbCO3). Depending on the ratio between hydrocerussite and cerussite, lead white can be classified into different subtypes, each with different optical properties. Current methods to investigate and differentiate between lead white subtypes involve invasive sampling on a microscopic scale, introducing problems of paint damage and representativeness. In this study, a 17th century painting Girl with a Pearl Earring (by Johannes Vermeer, c. 1665, collection of the Mauritshuis, NL) was analyzed with a recently developed mobile and noninvasive macroscopic x-ray powder diffraction (MA-XRPD) scanner within the project Girl in the Spotlight. Four different subtypes of lead white were identified using XRPD imaging at the macroscopic and microscopic scale, implying that Vermeer was highly discriminatory in his use of lead white.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000491121200021 Publication Date 2019-08-30
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 2375-2548 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor Times cited 3 Open Access
Notes (up) ; K.J. wishes to thank the Research Council of the University of Antwerp for financial support through GOA project SolarPaint. Also, FWO, Brussels is acknowledged for financial support through grants G056619N and G054719N. The support of InterReg programme Smart*Light is appreciated. ; Approved Most recent IF: NA
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:163815 Serial 5700
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Author Vanmeert, F.; Hendriks, E.; van der Snickt, G.; Monico, L.; Dik, J.; Janssens, K.
Title Chemical Mapping by Macroscopic X-ray Powder Diffraction (MA-XRPD) of Van Gogh's Sunflowers : identification of areas with higher degradation risk Type A1 Journal article
Year 2018 Publication Angewandte Chemie: international edition in English Abbreviated Journal Angew Chem Int Edit
Volume 57 Issue 25 Pages 7418-7422
Keywords A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
Abstract The discoloration rate of chrome yellow (CY), a class of synthetic inorganic pigments (PbCr1-xSxO4) frequently used by Van Gogh and his contemporaries, strongly depends on its sulfate content and on its crystalline structure (either monoclinic or orthorhombic). Macroscopic X-Ray powder diffraction imaging of selected areas on Van Gogh's Sunflowers (Van Gogh Museum, Amsterdam) revealed the presence of two subtypes of CY: the light-fast monoclinic PbCrO4 (LF-CY) and the light-sensitive monoclinic PbCr1-xSxO4 (x approximate to 0.5; LS-CY). The latter was encountered in large parts of the painting (e.g., in the pale-yellow background and the bright-yellow petals, but also in the green stems and flower hearts), thus indicating their higher risk for past or future darkening. Overall, it is present in more than 50% of the CY regions. Preferred orientation of LS-CY allows observation of a significant ordering of the elongated crystallites along the direction of Van Gogh's brush strokes.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000434949200023 Publication Date 2018-03-02
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1433-7851; 0570-0833 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 11.994 Times cited 10 Open Access
Notes (up) ; The authors acknowledge financial support from BELSPO (Brussels) S2-ART, the NWO (The Hague) Science4Arts “ReVisRembrandt” project, the GOA Project Solarpaint (University of Antwerp Research Council), and the Interreg Smart*Light project. Raman analyses were performed using the European MOLAB platform, which is financially supported by the Horizon 2020 Programme (IPERION CH Grant 654028). The authors thank the staff of the Van Gogh Museum for their collaboration. ; Approved Most recent IF: 11.994
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:153185 Serial 5517
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Author Simoen, J.; De Meyer, S.; Vanmeert, F.; De Keyser, N.; Avranovich, E.; van der Snickt, G.; Van Loon, A.; Keune, K.; Janssens, K.
Title Combined Micro- and Macro scale X-ray powder diffraction mapping of degraded Orpiment paint in a 17th century still life painting by Martinus Nellius Type A1 Journal article
Year 2019 Publication Heritage science Abbreviated Journal
Volume 7 Issue 1 Pages 83
Keywords A1 Journal article; Art; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation); Antwerp Cultural Heritage Sciences (ARCHES)
Abstract The spontaneous chemical alteration of artists' pigment materials may be caused by several degradation processes. Some of these are well known while others are still in need of more detailed investigation and documentation. These changes often become apparent as color modifications, either caused by a change in the oxidation state in the original material or the formation of degradation products or salts, via simple or more complex, multistep reactions. Arsenic-based pigments such as orpiment (As2S3) or realgar (alpha-As4S4) are prone to such alterations and are often described as easily oxidizing upon exposure to light. Macroscopic X-ray powder diffraction (MA-XRPD) imaging on a sub area of a still life painting by the 17th century Dutch painter Martinus Nellius was employed in combination with microscopic (mu-) XRPD imaging of a paint cross section taken in the area imaged by MA-XRPD. In this way, the in situ formation of secondary metal arsenate and sulfate species and their migration through the paint layer stack they originate from could be visualized. In the areas originally painted with orpiment, it could be shown that several secondary minerals such as schultenite (PbHAsO4), mimetite (Pb-5(AsO4)(3)Cl), palmierite (K2Pb(SO4)(2)) and syngenite (K2Ca(SO4)(2)center dot H2O) have formed. Closer inspection of the cross-sectioned paint layer stack with mu-XRPD illustrates that the arsenate minerals schultenite and mimetite have precipitated at the interface between the orpiment layer and the layer below that is rich in lead white, i.e. close to the depth of formation of the arsenate ions. The sulfate palmierite has mostly precipitated at the surface and upper layers of the painting.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000490592700001 Publication Date 2019-10-16
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 2050-7445 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor Times cited 2 Open Access
Notes (up) ; The authors acknowledge financial support from the NWO (The Hague) Science4Arts 'ReVisRembrandt' project (AvL, JD), the GOA Project Solarpaint (University of Antwerp Research Council) (SdM) and the METOX project (Belgian Federal Science Policy) (FvM). Special thanks go to the support received from FWO, Brussels via projects G056619 N and G054719 N (GvdS, KJ) and from NWO, The Hague via project NICAS/3D2P (KK, NdK). Parts of the MA-XRPD scanner could be purchased thanks to InterReg Project Smart*Light. ; Approved Most recent IF: NA
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:163693 Serial 5521
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Author Vanmeert, F.; van der Snickt, G.; Janssens, K.
Title Plumbonacrite identified by X-ray powder diffraction tomography as a missing link during degradation of red lead in a Van Gogh painting Type A1 Journal article
Year 2015 Publication Angewandte Chemie: international edition in English Abbreviated Journal Angew Chem Int Edit
Volume 54 Issue 12 Pages 3607-3610
Keywords A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
Abstract Red lead, a semiconductor pigment used by artists since antiquity, is known to undergo several discoloration phenomena. These transformations are either described as darkening of the pigment caused by the formation of either plattnerite (β-PbO2) or galena (PbS) or as whitening by which red lead is converted into anglesite (PbSO4) or (hydro)cerussite (2 PbCO3⋅Pb(OH)2; PbCO3). X-ray powder diffraction tomography, a powerful analytical method that allows visualization of the internal distribution of different crystalline compounds in complex samples, was used to investigate a microscopic paint sample from a Van Gogh painting. A very rare lead mineral, plumbonacrite (3 PbCO3⋅ Pb(OH)2⋅PbO), was revealed to be present. This is the first reported occurrence of this compound in a painting dating from before the mid 20th century. It constitutes the missing link between on the one hand the photoinduced reduction of red lead and on the other hand (hydro)cerussite, and thus sheds new light on the whitening of red lead.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000351178300008 Publication Date 2015-02-20
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1433-7851; 0570-0833 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 11.994 Times cited 24 Open Access
Notes (up) ; The authors acknowledge L. Van der Loeff and M. Leeuwestein (Kroller-Muller Museum) for providing the paint sample. We thank Dr. J. Jaroszewicz (WUT) for performing the CT measurements. This research was carried out at the light source PETRA III at DESY, a member of the Helmholtz Association (HGF). We thank Dr. G. Falkenberg and the members of his team for their assistance in using beam line P06. We acknowledge financial support from the University of Antwerp GOA projects “XANES meets EELS” and “SOLARPaint”, as well as from BELSPO (Brussels) Project S2-ART and FWO (Brussels) project “ESRF-Dubble”. ; Approved Most recent IF: 11.994; 2015 IF: 11.261
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:124620 Serial 5774
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Author Harth, A.; van der Snickt, G.; Schalm, O.; Janssens, K.; Blanckaert, G.
Title The young Van Dyck's fingerprint : a technical approach to assess the authenticity of a disputed painting Type A1 Journal article
Year 2017 Publication Heritage science Abbreviated Journal
Volume 5 Issue Pages 22-13
Keywords A1 Journal article; Art; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation); Antwerp Cultural Heritage Sciences (ARCHES)
Abstract The painting Saint Jerome, part of the collection of the Maagdenhuis Museum (Antwerp, Belgium), is attributed to the young Anthony van Dyck (1613-1621) with reservations. The painting displays remarkable compositional and iconographic similarities with two early Van Dyck works (1618-1620) now in Museum Boijmans van Beuningen (Rotterdam) and Nationalmuseum (Stockholm). Despite these similarities, previous art historical research did not result in a clear attribution to this master. In this study, the works authenticity as a young Van Dyck painting was assessed from a technical perspective by employing a twofold approach. First, technical information on Van Dycks materials and techniques, here identified as his fingerprint, were defined based on a literature review. Second, the materials and techniques of the questioned Saint Jerome painting were characterized by using complementary imaging techniques: infrared reflectography, X-ray radiography and macro X-ray fluorescence scanning. The insights from this non-invasive research were supplemented with analysis of a limited number of cross-sections by means of field emission scanning electron microscopy coupled with energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. The results demonstrated that the questioned paintings materials and techniques deviate from Van Dycks fingerprint, thus making the authorship of this master very unlikely.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000403971300001 Publication Date 2017-05-12
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 2050-7445 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor Times cited 1 Open Access
Notes (up) ; The authors are grateful to the staff of the Maagdenhuis Museum Antwerp, especially to Daniel Christiaens and Rudi van Velthoven, for their cooperation and enthusiastic support. Prof. Em. Claudine A. Chavannes-Mazel and Ph. D. student Alice Taatgen (University of Amsterdam) are acknowledged for the IRR recordings. We also would like to acknowledge Dr. Christina Currie (KIK/IRPA) and Catherine Fondaire (KIK/IRPA) for the XRR, and Eva Grieten (EMAT, University of Antwerp) for the FE-SEM-EDX. Finally, the authors wish to thank Prof. Dr. Katlijne van der Stighelen (University of Leuven) and Prof. Dr. Maximilaan Martens (Ghent University) for their art historical insights and additional comments. This research was supported by the Baillet Latour fund and Research Foundation Flanders (FWO). ; Approved Most recent IF: NA
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:143633 Serial 5923
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Author Radepont, M.; de Nolf, W.; Janssens, K.; van der Snickt, G.; Coquinot, Y.; Klaassen, L.; Cotte, M.
Title The use of microscopic X-ray diffraction for the study of HgS and its degradation products corderoite (\alpha-Hg3S2Cl2), kenhsuite (\gamma-Hg3S2Cl2) and calomel (Hg2Cl2) in historical paintings Type A1 Journal article
Year 2011 Publication Journal of analytical atomic spectrometry Abbreviated Journal J Anal Atom Spectrom
Volume 26 Issue 5 Pages 959-968
Keywords A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
Abstract Since antiquity, the red pigment mercury sulfide (α-HgS), called cinnabar in its natural form or vermilion red when synthetic, was very often used in frescoes and paintings, even if it was known to suffer occasionally from degradation. The paint hereby acquires a black or silver-grey aspect. The chemical characterization of these alteration products is rather challenging mainly because of the micrometric size and heterogeneity of the surface layers that develop and that are responsible for the color change. Methods such as electron microscopy, synchrotron-based microscopic X-ray fluorescence, microscopic X-ray absorption near edge spectroscopy, Raman microscopy and secondary ion microscopy have been previously employed to identify the (Hg- and S-) compounds present and to study their co-localization. Next to these, also microscopic X-ray diffraction (XRD) (either by making use of laboratory X-ray sources or when used at a synchrotron facility) allows the identification of the crystal phases that are present in degraded HgS paint layers. In this paper we employ these various forms of micro-XRD to analyze degraded red paint in different paintings and compare the results with other X-ray based methods. Whereas the elemental analyses of the degradation products revealed, next to mercury and sulfur, the presence of chlorine, X-ray diffraction allowed the identification, next to α-HgS, of the Hg and S-containing compound calomel (Hg2Cl2) but also of the Hg, S and Cl-containing minerals corderoite (α-Hg3S2Cl2) and kenhsuite (γ-Hg3S2Cl2). These observations are consistent with X-ray absorption spectroscopy measurements performed at the S- and Cl-edges.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000289731900011 Publication Date 2011-03-03
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0267-9477 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 3.379 Times cited 40 Open Access
Notes (up) ; The authors gratefully acknowledge GOA programme “XANES meets EELS'' (University of Antwerp Research Council), the IUAP VI/P16 programme ”Nacho'' (BELSPO, Brussels, Belgium) and FWO (Brussels, Belgium) projects no. G.0689.06, G.0704.08 and G017909N for financial support, the ESRF for granting beamtime under proposals no. EC442 and EC720, and Gema Martinez-Criado for practical help on ID18F. The KMSKA staff is also gratefully acknowledged for their help and interest. Javier Chillida is thanked for providing us with the Pedralbes samples. The authors are also indebted to the CHARISMA project (grant agreement 228330) for financial support. ; Approved Most recent IF: 3.379; 2011 IF: 3.220
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:89927 Serial 5896
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Author Trentelman, K.; Janssens, K.; van der Snickt, G.; Szafran, Y.; Woollett, A.T.; Dik, J.
Title Rembrandt's An Old Man in Military Costume: the underlying image re-examined Type A1 Journal article
Year 2015 Publication Applied physics A : materials science & processing Abbreviated Journal Appl Phys A-Mater
Volume 121 Issue 3 Pages 801-811
Keywords A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
Abstract The painting An Old Man in Military Costume in the J. Paul Getty Museum, by Rembrandt Harmensz van Rijn, was studied using two complementary, element-specific imaging techniques-neutron activation autoradiography (NAAR) and macro-X-ray fluorescence (MA-XRF) mapping-to reveal the second, hidden painting. NAAR provided a strong image of the face and cloak of the underlying figure, along with an indication of the chemical composition. The single-element distribution maps produced by MA-XRF mapping provided additional details into the shape of the underlying image and the composition of the pigments used. The underlying figure's face is richer in mercury, indicative of the pigment vermilion, than the face of the figure on the surface. Likewise, the cloak of the underlying figure is richer in copper than the surface figure though the identity of the copper-containing pigment cannot be determined from these data. The use of iron earth pigments, specifically Si-rich umbers, is indicated through the complementary information provided by the NAAR and MA-XRF maps. These data are used to create a false color digital reconstruction, yielding the most detailed representation of the underlying painting to date.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000364914100003 Publication Date 2015-08-31
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0947-8396 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 1.455 Times cited 22 Open Access
Notes (up) ; The authors gratefully acknowledge the assistance of all those who aided in the examination of this painting over the decades, that has culminated in the work presented here. Particular thanks go to Mark Leonard (former head of Paintings Conservation at the J. Paul Getty Museum) and Henry Prask (NIST) for carrying out the NAAR analysis; John Twilley (former GCI Scientist) for early investigations; Andrea Sartorius (former JPGM Paintings intern) for creating a mock-up painting used in earlier phases of this work; Peter Reishig (former GCI intern) for compiling the NAAR data; Catherine Patterson, Lynn Lee, and David Carson (GCI Science) and Gene Karraker (JPGM Paintings Conservation) for helping with the setup and operation of the M6 Jetstream; and Giacomo Chiari (former head of GCI Science) for performing the XRD analysis. Koen Janssens and Geert van der Snickt acknowledge the Fund Inbev-Baillet Latour for financial support. Joris Dik acknowledges the help of the Netherlands Organization for Scientific Research (NWO) in the form of a VIDI grant in the Innovational Research Incentive Scheme. ; Approved Most recent IF: 1.455; 2015 IF: 1.704
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:130289 Serial 5812
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Author Dooley, K.A.; Gifford, E.M.; van Loon, A.; Noble, P.; Zeibel, J.G.; Conover, D.M.; Alfeld, M.; van der Snickt, G.; Legrand, S.; Janssens, K.; Dik, J.; Delaney, J.K.
Title Separating two painting campaigns in Saul and David, attributed to Rembrandt, using macroscale reflectance and XRF imaging spectroscopies and microscale paint analysis Type A1 Journal article
Year 2018 Publication Heritage science Abbreviated Journal
Volume 6 Issue 6 Pages 46
Keywords A1 Journal article; Art; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
Abstract Late paintings of Rembrandt van Rijn (1606-1669) offer intriguing problems for both art historians and conservation scientists. In the research presented here, the key question addressed is whether observed stylistic differences in paint handling can be correlated with material differences. In Saul and David, in the collection of the Royal Picture Gallery Mauritshuis in The Hague, NL, the stylistic differences between the loose brushwork of Saul's cloak and the more detailed depiction of his turban and the figure of David have been associated with at least two painting stages since the late 1960s, but the attribution of each stage has been debated in the art historical literature. Stylistic evaluation of the paint handling in the two stages, based on magnified surface examination, is further described here. One of the research goals was to determine whether the stylistic differences could be further differentiated with macroscale and microscale methods of material analysis. To address this, selected areas of the painting having pronounced stylistic differences were investigated with two macroscopic chemical imaging methods, X-ray fluorescence and reflectance imaging spectroscopies. The pigments used were identified and their spatial distribution was mapped. The mapping results show that the passages rendered in more detail and associated stylistically with the first painting stage, such as the orange-red color of David's garment or the Greek key design in Saul's turban, were painted with predominately red ochre mixed with vermilion. The regions of loose, bold brushwork, such as the orange-red slashing strokes in the interior of Saul's cloak, associated with the second painting stage, were painted with predominately red ochre without vermilion. These macroscale imaging results were confirmed and extended with scanning electron microscopy with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDX) analysis of three cross-sections taken from regions of stylistic differences associated with the two painting stages, including one sample each from the right and left sleeve of David, and one from the interior of Saul's cloak. SEM-EDX also identified a trace component, barium sulfate, associated with the red ochre of the second stage revisions. Combining mapping information from two spectroscopic imaging methods with localized information from microscopic samples has clearly shown that the stylistic differences observed in the paint handling are affiliated with differences in the chemical composition of the paints.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000441205600001 Publication Date 2018-08-02
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 2050-7445 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor Times cited 3 Open Access
Notes (up) ; The authors gratefully acknowledge the financial support through the NWO Science4Arts program (ReVisRembrandt Project 2012-2018) and the NSF SCI-ART program (Award 1041827). JKD acknowledges support from the Andrew W. Mellon and the Samuel H. Kress Foundations. SL is grateful for a doctoral scholarship from the Research Council of the University of Antwerp. GvdS and KJ acknowledge support from the Fund Baillet Latour. ; Approved Most recent IF: NA
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:153119 Serial 5829
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Author De Meyer, S.; Vanmeert, F.; Vertongen, R.; van Loon, A.; Gonzalez, V.; van der Snickt, G.; Vandivere, A.; Janssens, K.
Title Imaging secondary reaction products at the surface of Vermeer's Girl with the Pearl Earring by means of macroscopic X-ray powder diffraction scanning Type A1 Journal article
Year 2019 Publication Heritage science Abbreviated Journal
Volume 7 Issue 1 Pages 67
Keywords A1 Journal article; Art; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation); Antwerp Cultural Heritage Sciences (ARCHES)
Abstract The use of non-invasive macroscopic imaging techniques is becoming more prevalent in the field of cultural heritage, especially to avoid invasive procedures that damage valuable artworks. For this purpose, an X-ray powder diffraction scanner (MA-XRPD) capable of visualising crystalline compounds in a highly specific manner was recently developed. Many inorganic pigments present in paintings fall into this category of materials. In this study, the 17th century oil painting Girl with a Pearl Earring (c. 1665) by Johannes Vermeer was analysed with a combination of transmission and reflection mode MA-XRPD. By employing this scanner in reflection mode, the relative sensitivity for compounds that are present at the paint surface could be increased, establishing it as a highly relevant technique for investigating the degradation processes that are ongoing at paint surfaces. Many of the original pigments employed by Vermeer could be identified, along with four secondary alteration products: gypsum (CaSO4 center dot 2H(2)O), anglesite (PbSO4), palmierite (K2Pb(SO4)(2)) and weddellite (CaC2O4 center dot 2H(2)O). The formation of gypsum was linked to the presence of chalk in the upper glaze layer while the formation of palmierite and weddellite is driven by the presence of lake pigments (and their substrates). In this manner, MA-XRPD can also be used to pinpoint locations relevant for sampling and synchrotron mu-XRPD analysis, which provides information on the microscopic make-up of the paint. A paint cross-section taken from an area rich in palmierite was analysed with synchrotron mu-XRPD, which confirmed the presence of this secondary compound at the interface of the upper paint layer with the ground layer as well as the presence of anglesite in the ground layer. The capacity of MA-XRPD to identify and chart secondary alteration products in a non-invasive manner has only very recently been demonstrated and makes it a highly relevant technique for the assessment of the chemical condition of works of art.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000484938100001 Publication Date 2019-09-08
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 2050-7445 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor Times cited 5 Open Access
Notes (up) ; The authors would like to thank Interreg Vlaanderen-Nederland for funding to help develop the MA-rXRPD scanner. This project was made possible with support from the Johan Maurits Compagnie Foundation. This study was supported by Interreg and CALIPSOplus (Grant 730872). ; Approved Most recent IF: NA
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:162801 Serial 5653
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Author Alfeld, M.; Wahabzada, M.; Bauckhage, C.; Kersting, K.; van der Snickt, G.; Noble, P.; Janssens, K.; Wellenreuther, G.; Falkenberg, G.
Title Simplex Volume Maximization (SiVM): a matrix factorization algorithm with non-negative constrains and low computing demands for the interpretation of full spectral X-ray fluorescence imaging data Type A1 Journal article
Year 2017 Publication Microchemical journal Abbreviated Journal Microchem J
Volume 132 Issue Pages 179-184
Keywords A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
Abstract Technological progress allows for an ever-faster acquisition of hyperspectral data, challenging the users to keep up with interpreting the recorded data. Matrix factorization, the representation of data sets by bases (or loads) and coefficient (or score) images is long used to support the interpretation of complex data sets. We propose in this publication Simplex Volume Maximization (SiVM) for the analysis of X-ray fluorescence (XRF) imaging data sets. SiVM selects archetypical data points that represents the data set and thus provides easily understandable bases, preserves the non-negative character of XRF data sets and has low demands concerning computing resources. We apply SiVM on an XRF data set of Hans Memling's Portrait of a man from the Lespinette family from the collection of the Mauritshuis (The Hague, NL) and discuss capabilities and shortcomings of SiVM. (C) 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000399845700026 Publication Date 2017-02-04
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0026-265x; 0026-265x ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 3.034 Times cited 8 Open Access
Notes (up) ; The German Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF) is acknowledged for the financial support (Verbundprojekt 05K2012 POISSON: Fortschrittliche Faktorenanalyse ffir Poisson-verteilte Daten). ; Approved Most recent IF: 3.034
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:152647 Serial 5830
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Author Alfeld, M.; Janssens, K.; Dik, J.; de Nolf, W.; van der Snickt, G.
Title Optimization of mobile scanning macro-XRF systems for the in situ investigation of historical paintings Type A1 Journal article
Year 2011 Publication Journal of analytical atomic spectrometry Abbreviated Journal J Anal Atom Spectrom
Volume 26 Issue 5 Pages 899-909
Keywords A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
Abstract Elemental distribution maps are of great interest in the study of historical paintings, as they allow to investigate the pigment use of the artist, to image changes made in the painting during or after its creation and in some cases to reveal discarded paintings that were later over painted. Yet a method that allows to record such maps of a broad range of elements in a fast, non-destructive and in situ manner is not yet commonly available; a dedicated mobile scanning XRF instrument might fill this gap. In this paper we present three self-built scanning macro-XRF instruments, each based on the experience gained with its precursor. These instruments are compared in terms of sensitivity and limits of detection, which includes a discussion of the use of polycapillary optics and pinhole collimators as beam defining devices. Furthermore, the imaging capabilities of the instruments are demonstrated in three exemplary cases: (parts of) historical paintings from the 15th to the 19th century are examined. These cases illustrate the value of element specific distribution maps in the study of historical paintings and allow in the case of Vincent van Gogh's Patch of Grass a direct comparison between in situ and synchrotron based scanning macro-XRF.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000289731900004 Publication Date 2011-03-21
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0267-9477 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 3.379 Times cited 107 Open Access
Notes (up) ; The investigation of the “Triptych of the Seven Sacraments'' was done in collaboration with Griet Steyaert, independent restorer, and Lizet Klaassen, Royal Museum of Fine Arts (Antwerp, Belgium). The investigation of ”Patch of Grass'' was realized in collaboration with Luuk van der Loeff, Kroller-Muller-Museum (Otterlo, The Netherlands). M. Alfeld is a PhD fellowship of the Research Foundation-Flanders (FWO). This research was supported by the Interuniversity Attraction Poles Programme-Belgian Science Policy (IUAP VI/16) NACHO. The text also presents results of GOA "XANES meets ELNES'' (Research Fund University of Antwerp, Belgium) and from FWO (Brussels, Belgium) projects no. G.0103.04, G.0689.06 and G.0704.08. Further, the work presented was sponsored by the Innovational Research Incentives Scheme of the Netherlands Organization for Scientific Research, NWO (proj. no. 016.118.303). ; Approved Most recent IF: 3.379; 2011 IF: 3.220
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:89919 Serial 5758
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Author van der Snickt, G.; Legrand, S.; Caen, J.; Vanmeert, F.; Alfeld, M.; Janssens, K.
Title Chemical imaging of stained-glass windows by means of macro X-ray fluorescence (MA-XRF) scanning Type A1 Journal article
Year 2016 Publication Microchemical journal Abbreviated Journal Microchem J
Volume 124 Issue Pages 615-622
Keywords A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation); Antwerp Cultural Heritage Sciences (ARCHES)
Abstract Since the recent development of a mobile setup, MA-XRF scanning proved a valuable tool for the non-invasive, technical study of paintings. In this work, the applicability of MA-XRF scanning for investigating stained-glass windows inside a conservation studio is assessed by analysis of a high-profile, well-studied late-mediaeval panel. Although accurate quantification of components is not feasible with this analytical imaging technique, plotting the detected intensities of K versus Ca in a scatter plot allowed distinguishing glass fragments of different compositional types within the same panel. In particular, clusters in the Ca/K correlation plot revealed the presence of two subtypes of potash glass and three subtypes of high lime low alkali glass. MA-XRF results proved consistent with previous quantitative SEM-EDX analysis on two samples and analytical-based theories on glass production in the Low Countries formulated in literature. A bi-plot of the intensities of the more energetic Rb-K versus Sr-K emission lines yielded a similar glass type differentiation and is here presented as suitable alternative in case the Ca/K signal ratio is affected by superimposed weathering crusts. Apart from identification of the chromophores responsible for the green, blue and red glass colors, contrasting the associated elemental distribution maps obtained on the exterior and interior side of the glass permitted discriminating between colored pot metal glass and multi-layered flashed glass as well. Finally, the benefit of obtaining compositional information from the entire surface, as opposed to point analysis, was illustrated by the discovery of what appears to be a green cobalt glass a feature that was previously missed on this well-studied stained-glass window, both by connoisseurs and spectroscopic sample analysis. (C) 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000367755600074 Publication Date 2015-10-25
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0026-265x; 0026-265x ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 3.034 Times cited 22 Open Access
Notes (up) ; The staff of the Museums of the City of Bruges, i.e. Director Till-Holger Borchert and Deputy Curator Kristel Van Audenaeren, are acknowledged for this pleasant collaboration and the authorization for the publication of the images in this article. This research was supported by the InBev-Baillet Latour fund. ; Approved Most recent IF: 3.034
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:131100 Serial 5514
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Author Peeters, J.; Steenackers, G.; Sfarra, S.; Legrand, S.; Ibarra-Castanedo, C.; Janssens, K.; van der Snickt, G.
Title IR reflectography and active thermography on artworks : the added value of the 1.53 µm band Type A1 Journal article
Year 2018 Publication Applied Sciences Abbreviated Journal Appl Sci-Basel
Volume 8 Issue 1 Pages 50
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
Abstract Infrared Radiation (IR) artwork inspection is typically performed through active thermography and reflectography with different setups and cameras. While Infrared Radiation Reflectography (IRR) is an established technique in the museum field, exploiting mainly the IR-A (0.71.4 µm) band to probe for hidden layers and modifications within the paint stratigraphy system, active thermography operating in the IR-C range (35 μ m) is less frequently employed with the aim to visualize structural defects and features deeper inside the build-up. In this work, we assess to which extent the less investigated IR-B band (1.53 μ m) can combine the information obtained from both setups. The application of IR-B systems is relatively rare as there are only a limited amount of commercial systems available due to the technical complexity of the lens coating. This is mainly added as a so-called broadband option on regular Mid-wave infrared radiation (MWIR) (IR-C/35 μ m) cameras to increase sensitivity for high temperature applications in industry. In particular, four objects were studied in both reflectographic and thermographic mode in the IR-B spectral range and their results benchmarked with IR-A and IR-C images. For multispectral application, a single benchmark is made with macroscopic reflection mode Fourier transform infrared (MA-rFTIR) results. IR-B proved valuable for visualisation of underdrawings, pencil marks, canvas fibres and wooden grain structures and potential pathways for additional applications such as pigment identification in multispectral mode or characterization of the support (panels, canvas) are indicated.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000424388800050 Publication Date 2018-01-03
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 2076-3417 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 1.679 Times cited 4 Open Access
Notes (up) ; This research has been funded by the University of Antwerp and the Institute for the Promotion of Innovation by Science and Technology in Flanders (VLAIO) by the support to the TETRA project 'SINT: Smart Integration of Numerical modelling and Thermal inspection' with project number HBC.2017.0032. Furthermore, the research leading to these results has received funding from the Research Foundation Flanders (FWO) travel grant V4.010.16N and the Stimpro stimuli of UAntwerpen under project ID 32864. We would like to end with a special thanks to the MiViM research chair of Prof. Xavier Maldague and the support of the full team in supporting the preliminary measurements of this research. ; Approved Most recent IF: 1.679
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:149164 Serial 5677
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Author Janssens, K.; van der Snickt, G.; Alfeld, M.; Noble, P.; van Loon, A.; Delaney, J.; Conover, D.; Zeibel, J.; Dik, J.
Title Rembrandt's 'Saul and David' (c. 1652) : use of multiple types of smalt evidenced by means of non-destructive imaging Type A1 Journal article
Year 2016 Publication Microchemical journal Abbreviated Journal Microchem J
Volume 126 Issue Pages 515-523
Keywords A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
Abstract The painting Saul and David, considered to date from c. 1652 and previously attributed to Rembrandt van Rijn and/or his studio, is a complex work of art that has been recently subjected to intensive investigation and conservation treatment. The goal of the research was to give insight into the painting's physical construction and condition in preparation for conservation treatment. It was also anticipated that analysis would shed light on authenticity questions and Rembrandt's role in the creation of the painting. The painting depicts the Old Testament figures of King Saul and David. At left is Saul, seated, holding a spear and wiping a tear from his eye with a curtain. David kneels before him at the right playing his harp. In the past, the large sections with the life-size figures were cut apart and later reassembled. A third piece of canvas was added to replace a missing piece of canvas above the head of David. As part of the investigation into the authenticity of the curtain area, a number of paint micro samples were examined with LM and SEM-EDX. Given that the earth, smalt and lake pigments used in the painting could not be imaged with traditional imaging techniques, the entire painting was also examined with state of the art non-destructive imaging techniques. Special attention was devoted to the presence of cobalt-containing materials, specifically the blue glass pigment smalt considered characteristic for the late Rembrandt. A combination of quantitative electron microprobe analysis and macroscopic X-ray fluorescence scanning revealed that three types of cobalt-containing materials are present in the painting. The first type is a cobalt drier that was found in the overpaint used to cover up the canvas inset and the joins that were added in the 19th century. The other two Co-containing materials are part of the original paint used by Rembrandt and comprise two varieties of smalt, a K-rich glass pigment that derives its gray-blue color by doping with Co-ions. Smalt paint with a higher Ni content (NiO:CoO ratio of around 1:4) was used to depict the blue stripes in Saul's colorful turban, while smalt with a lower Ni content was employed (NiO:CoO ratio of around 1:5) for the broad expanses of Saul's garments. The presence of two types of smalt not only supports the recent re-attribution of the painting to Rembrandt, but also that the picture was painted in two phases. Saul's dark red garment is painted in a rough, “loose” manner and the now discolored smalt-rich layer was found to have been partially removed during a past restoration treatment/s. In contrast, the blue-green smalt in the turban is much better preserved and provides a colorful accent. While the use of different types of smalt in a Rembrandt painting has been previously identified using quantitative EDX analysis of paint cross-sections, to the best of our knowledge this is the first time such a distinction has been observed in a 17th-century painting using non-destructive imaging techniques. In addition to the XRF-based non-invasive elemental mapping, hyperspectral imaging in the visual to near-infrared (VNIR) region was also carried out. (C) 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000373647500063 Publication Date 2016-01-29
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0026-265x; 0026-265x ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 3.034 Times cited 18 Open Access
Notes (up) ; This research is part of the ReVisualising late Rembrandt: Developing and Applying New Imaging Techniques research project, supported by the Science4Arts research program of the Netherlands Organisation for Scientific Research (NWO, The Hague, NL, ReVisRembrandt project) and the National Science Foundation (NSF, Washington DC, USA, award 1041827). We would like to thank colleagues of the Mauritshuis (The Hague, NL) and the Dutch Cultural Heritage Agency (RCE) in Rijswijk, NL for their support and assistance during the scanning of the Saul and David painting. The GOA project “SOLARPAINT” (University of Antwerp) and the Fund Baillet Latour (Brussels, B) are acknowledged for financial support to GvdS and KJ. We also like to acknowledge the help of Eliza Longhini and Stijn Legrand during some of the XRF scanning stages. ; Approved Most recent IF: 3.034
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:133258 Serial 5813
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Author van Loon, A.; Noble, P.; Krekeler, A.; van der Snickt, G.; Janssens, K.; Abe, Y.; Nakai, I.; Dik, J.
Title Artificial orpiment, a new pigment in Rembrandt's palette Type A1 Journal article
Year 2017 Publication Heritage science Abbreviated Journal
Volume 5 Issue Pages 26
Keywords A1 Journal article; Art; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
Abstract This paper reports on how the application of macro X-ray fluorescence (MA-XRF) imaging, in combination with the re-examination of existing paint cross-sections, has led to the discovery of a new pigment in Rembrandt's palette: artificial orpiment. In the NWO Science4Arts 'ReVisRembrandt' project, novel chemical imaging techniques are being developed and applied to the study of Rembrandt's late paintings in order to help resolve outstanding questions and to gain a better understanding of his late enigmatic painting technique. One of the selected case studies is the Portrait of a Couple as Isaac and Rebecca, known as 'The Jewish Bride', dated c. 1665 and on view in the Rijksmuseum. During the re-installation of the Rijksmuseum in 2013, the picture was scanned using the Bruker M6 Jetstream MAXRF scanner. The resulting elemental distribution maps made it possible to distinguish many features in the painting, such as bone black remains of the original hat (P, Ca maps), and the now discolored smalt-rich background (Co, Ni, As, K maps). The arsenic (As) map also revealed areas of high-intensity in Isaac's sleeve and Rebecca's dress where it could be established that it was not related with the pigment smalt that also contains arsenic. This pointed to the presence of a yellow or orange arsenic-containing pigment, such as realgar or orpiment that is not associated with the artist's palette. Subsequent examination of existing paint cross-sections from these locations taken by Karin Groen in the 1990s identified isolated, almost perfectly round particles of arsenic sulfide. The round shape corresponds with published findings on a purified form of artificial orpiment glass obtained by dry processing, a sublimation reaction. In bright field, the particles characteristically exhibit a dark cross in the middle caused by internal light reflections. The results of additional non-invasive techniques (portable XRD and portable Raman) are discussed, as well as the implications of this finding and how it fits with Rembrandt's late experimental painting technique.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000404916400001 Publication Date 2017-06-02
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 2050-7445 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor Times cited 6 Open Access
Notes (up) ; This research is part of the Science4Arts Program, funded by the Netherlands Organization for Scientific Research (NWO) (Grant No. SFA-11-12). GVdS is supported by the Baillet Latour Fund. The authors would like to thank Lisette Vos, Rijksmuseum Amsterdam, for assisting with the MA-XRF scanning; Arisa Izumi and Airi Hirayama, students of the Tokyo University of Science, and Frederik Vanmeert, University of Antwerp, for assisting with the pXRD and pRaman measurements. We are also grateful to Rob Erdmann, Rijksmuseum Amsterdam, who made the curtain viewer to facilitate comparison of the visible image with the elemental distribution maps of the painting. ; Approved Most recent IF: NA
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:144864 Serial 5479
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Author Monico, L.; van der Snickt, G.; Janssens, K.; de Nolf, W.; Miliani, C.; Dik, J.; Radepont, M.; Hendriks, E.; Geldof, M.; Cotte, M.
Title Degradation process of lead chromate in paintings by Vincent van Gogh studied by means of synchrotron X-ray spectromicroscopy and related methods : 2 : original paint layer samples Type A1 Journal article
Year 2011 Publication Analytical chemistry Abbreviated Journal Anal Chem
Volume 83 Issue 4 Pages 1224-1231
Keywords A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
Abstract The darkening of the original yellow areas painted with the chrome yellow pigment (PbCrO4, PbCrO4·xPbSO4, or PbCrO4·xPbO) is a phenomenon widely observed on several paintings by Vincent van Gogh, such as the famous different versions of Sunflowers. During our previous investigations on artificially aged model samples of lead chromate, we established for the first time that darkening of chrome yellow is caused by reduction of PbCrO4 to Cr2O3·2H2O (viridian green), likely accompanied by the presence of another Cr(III) compound, such as either Cr2(SO4)3·H2O or (CH3CO2)7Cr3(OH)2 [chromium(III) acetate hydroxide]. In the second part of this work, in order to demonstrate that this reduction phenomenon effectively takes place in real paintings, we study original paint samples from two paintings of V. van Gogh. As with the model samples, in view of the thin superficial alteration layers that are present, high lateral resolution spectroscopic methods that make use of synchrotron radiation (SR), such as microscopic X-ray absorption near edge (μ-XANES) and X-ray fluorescence spectrometry (μ-XRF) were employed. Additionally, μ-Raman and mid-FTIR analyses were carried out to completely characterize the samples. On both paint microsamples, the local presence of reduced Cr was demonstrated by means of μ-XANES point measurements. The presence of Cr(III) was revealed in specific areas, in some cases correlated to the presence of Ba(sulfate) and/or to that of aluminum silicate compounds.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000287176900012 Publication Date 2011-02-14
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0003-2700; 5206-882x ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 6.32 Times cited 84 Open Access
Notes (up) ; This research was funded by grants from ESRF (experiment EC-504) and by HASYLAB (experiments 11-20080130 EC and 11-20070157 EC) and was supported by the Interuniversity Attraction Poles Programme-Belgian Science Policy (IUAP VI/16). The text also presents results of GOA “XANES meets ELNES” (Research Fund University of Antwerp, Belgium) and from FWO (Brussels, Belgium) project nos. G.0103.04, G.0689.06, and G.0704.08. The staff of the Van Gogh Museum, Amsterdam, is acknowledged for their agreeable cooperation and for the authorization to publish the images of the paintings in this article. L.M. was financially supported by the Erasmus Placement in the framework of Lifelong Learning Programme (A.Y. 2009-2010). The EU Community's FP7 Research Infrastructures program under the CHARISMA Project (Grant Agreement 228330) is also acknowledged. ; Approved Most recent IF: 6.32; 2011 IF: 5.856
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:88795 Serial 5571
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Author van der Snickt, G.; Dooley, K.A.; Sanyova, J.; Dubois, H.; Delaney, J.K.; Gifford, E.M.; Legrand, S.; Laquiere, N.; Janssens, K.
Title Dual mode standoff imaging spectroscopy documents the painting process of the Lamb of God in the Ghent Altarpiece by J. and H. Van Eyck Type A1 Journal article
Year 2020 Publication Science Advances Abbreviated Journal
Volume 6 Issue 31 Pages eabb3379
Keywords A1 Journal article; Engineering sciences. Technology; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation); Antwerp Cultural Heritage Sciences (ARCHES)
Abstract The ongoing conservation treatment program of the Ghent Altarpiece by Hubert and Jan Van Eyck, one of the iconic paintings of the west, has revealed that the designs of the paintings were changed several times, first by the original artists, and then during later restorations. The central motif, The Lamb of God, representing Christ, plays an essential iconographic role, and its depiction is important. Because of the prevalence of lead white, it was not possible to visualize the Van Eycks' original underdrawing of the Lamb, their design changes, and the overpaint by later restorers with a single spectral imaging modality. However, by using elemental (x-ray fluorescence) and molecular (infrared reflectance) imaging spectroscopies, followed by analysis of the resulting data cubes, the necessary chemical contrast could be achieved. In this way, the two complementary modalities provided a more complete picture of the development and changes made to the Lamb.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000556543100033 Publication Date 2020-07-29
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 2375-2548 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 13.6 Times cited Open Access
Notes (up) ; This research was part of the activities of the Chair on Advanced Imaging Techniques for the Arts, established by the Baillet Latour fund. In addition, it was supported by the Belgian Science Policy Office (Project MO/39/011) and the Gieskes-Strijbis fund. We are also indebted to the BOF-GOA SOLARPaint project of the University of Antwerp Research Council and to FWO (Brussels) projects G056619N and G054719N. J.K.D. and K.A.D. acknowledge support from the National Gallery of Art. ; Approved Most recent IF: 13.6; 2020 IF: NA
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:171270 Serial 6494
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Author van der Snickt, G.; Janssens, K.; Dik, J.; de Nolf, W.; Vanmeert, F.; Jaroszewicz, J.; Cotte, M.; Falkenberg, G.; Van der Loeff, L.
Title Combined use of synchrotron radiation based micro-X-ray fluorescence, micro-X-ray diffraction, micro-X-ray absorption near-edge, and micro-fourier transform infrared spectroscopies for revealing an alternative degradation pathway of the pigment cadmium yellow in a painting by Van Gogh Type A1 Journal article
Year 2012 Publication Analytical chemistry Abbreviated Journal Anal Chem
Volume 84 Issue 23 Pages 10221-10228
Keywords A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
Abstract Over the past years a number of studies have described the instability of the pigment cadmium yellow (CdS). In a previous paper we have shown how cadmium sulfide on paintings by James Ensor oxidizes to CdSO4 center dot H2O. The degradation process gives rise to the fading of the bright yellow color and the formation of disfiguring white crystals that are present on the paint surface in approximately 50 mu m sized globular agglomerations. Here, we study cadmium yellow in the painting “Flowers in a blue vase” by Vincent van Gogh. This painting differs from the Ensor case in the fact that (a) a varnish was superimposed onto the degraded paint surface and (b) the CdS paint area is entirely covered with an opaque crust. The latter obscures the yellow color completely and thus presents a seemingly more advanced state of degradation. Analysis of a cross-sectioned and a crushed sample by combining scanning microscopic X-ray diffraction (mu-XRD), microscopic X-ray absorption near-edge spectroscopy (mu-XANES), microscopic X-ray fluorescence (mu-XRF) based chemical state mapping and scanning microscopic Fourier transform infrared (mu-FT-IR) spectrometry allowed unravelling the complex alteration pathway. Although no crystalline CdSO4 compounds were identified on the Van Gogh paint samples, we conclude that the observed degradation was initially caused by oxidation of the original CdS pigment, similar as for the previous Ensor case. However, due to the presence of an overlying varnish containing lead-based driers and oxalate ions, secondary reactions took place. In particular, it appears that upon the photoinduced oxidation of its sulfidic counterion, the Cd2+ ions reprecipitated at the paint/varnish interface after having formed a complex with oxalate ions that themselves are considered to be degradation products of the resin and/or oil in the varnish. The SO42- anions, for their part, found a suitable reaction partner in Pb2+ ions stemming from a dissolved lead-based siccative that was added to the varnish to promote its drying. The resulting opaque anglesite compound in the varnish, in combination with the underlying CdC2O4 layer at the paint/varnish interface, account for the orange-gray crust that is disfiguring the painting on a macroscopic level. In this way, the results presented in this paper demonstrate how, through a judicious combined use of several microanalytical methods with speciation capabilities, many new insights can be obtained from two minute, but highly complex and heterogeneous paint samples.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000311815300013 Publication Date 2012-08-30
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0003-2700; 5206-882x ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 6.32 Times cited 59 Open Access
Notes (up) ; This research was supported by BELSPO via the Interuniversity Attraction Poles Programme (IUAP VI/16) and the S2-ART project (SD/RI/04A) and funded by Grants from the ESRF (EC-442) and PETRA-III (I-20120312 EC). The text also presents results of GOA “XANES meets ELNES” (Research Fund University of Antwerp, Belgium) and from FWO (Brussels, Belgium) project nos. G.0103.04, G.0689.06, and G.0704.08. The staff of the Kroller-Muller Museum and painting conservators Margje Leeuwestein and Esther Van Duijn are acknowledged for this pleasant cooperation and the authorization for the publication of the images in this article. ; Approved Most recent IF: 6.32; 2012 IF: 5.695
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:105971 Serial 5526
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Author Monico, L.; Janssens, K.; Miliani, C.; van der Snickt, G.; Brunetti, B.G.; Guidi, M.C.; Radepont, M.; Cotte, M.
Title Degradation process of lead chromate in paintings by Vincent van Gogh studied by means of spectromicroscopic methods : 4 : artificial aging of model samples of co-precipitates of lead chromate and lead sulfate Type A1 Journal article
Year 2013 Publication Analytical chemistry Abbreviated Journal Anal Chem
Volume 85 Issue 2 Pages 860-867
Keywords A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
Abstract Previous investigations about the darkening of chrome yellow pigments revealed that this form of alteration is attributable to a reduction of the original Cr(VI) to Cr(III), and that the presence of sulfur-containing compounds, most often sulfates, plays a key role during this process. We recently demonstrated that different crystal forms of chrome yellow pigments (PbCrO4 and PbCr1xSxO4) are present in paintings by Vincent van Gogh. In the present work, we show how both the chemical composition and the crystalline structure of lead chromate-based pigments influence their stability. For this purpose, oil model samples made with in-house synthesized powders of PbCrO4 and PbCr1xSxO4 were artificially aged and characterized. We observed a profound darkening only for those paint models made with PbCr1xSxO4, rich in SO42 (x ≥ 0.4), and orthorhombic phases (>30 wt %). Cr and S K-edge micro X-ray absorption near edge structure investigations revealed in an unequivocal manner the formation of up to about 60% of Cr(III)-species in the outer layer of the most altered samples; conversely, independent of the paint models chemical composition, no change in the S-oxidation state was observed. Analyses employing UVvisible diffuse reflectance and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy were performed on unaged and aged model samples in order to obtain additional information on the physicochemical changes induced by the aging treatment.
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000313668400032 Publication Date 2012-10-10
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0003-2700; 5206-882x ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 6.32 Times cited 49 Open Access
Notes (up) ; This research was supported by grants from ESRF (experiment EC-799), the Interuniversity Attraction Poles Programme-Belgian Science Policy (IUAP VI/16), and the BELSPO-SDD S2-ART (SD/RI/04) project. The text also presents results from GOA “XANES meets ELNES” (Research Fund University of Antwerp, Belgium) and FWO (Brussels, Belgium) projects G.0704.08 and G.01769.09. The EU FP7 programme CHARISMA (Grant Agreement 228330) and MIUR (PRIN08, Materiali e sistemi innovativi per la conservazione dell'arte contemporanea 2008 FFXXN9) are also acknowledged. ; Approved Most recent IF: 6.32; 2013 IF: 5.825
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:110471 Serial 5569
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Author van der Snickt, G.; Dubois, H.; Sanyova, J.; Legrand, S.; Coudray, A.; Glaude, C.; Postec, M.; van Espen, P.; Janssens, K.
Title Large-area elemental imaging reveals Van Eyck's original paint layers on the Ghent altarpiece (1432), rescoping its conservation treatment Type A1 Journal article
Year 2017 Publication Angewandte Chemie: international edition in English Abbreviated Journal Angew Chem Int Edit
Volume 56 Issue 17 Pages 4797-4801
Keywords A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
Abstract A combination of large-scale and micro-scale elemental imaging, yielding elemental distribution maps obtained by, respectively non-invasive macroscopic X-ray fluorescence (MA-XRF) and by secondary electron microscopy/energy dispersive X-ray analysis (SEM-EDX) and synchrotron radiation-based micro-XRF (SR m-XRF) imaging was employed to reorient and optimize the conservation strategy of van Eyck's renowned Ghent Altarpiece. By exploiting the penetrative properties of X-rays together with the elemental specificity offered by XRF, it was possible to visualize the original paint layers by van Eyck hidden below the overpainted surface and to simultaneously assess their condition. The distribution of the high-energy Pb-L and Hg-L emission lines revealed the exact location of hidden paint losses, while Fe-K maps demonstrated how and where these lacunae were filled-up using an iron-containing material. The chemical maps nourished the scholarly debate on the overpaint removal with objective, chemical arguments, leading to the decision to remove all skillfully applied overpaints, hitherto interpreted as work by van Eyck. MA-XRF was also employed for monitoring the removal of the overpaint during the treatment phase. To gather complementary information on the in-depth layer build-up, SEM-EDX and SR mu-XRF imaging was used on paint cross sections to record microscale elemental maps.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000398576000019 Publication Date 2017-03-23
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 1433-7851; 0570-0833 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 11.994 Times cited 11 Open Access
Notes (up) ; This research was supported by the Baillet Latour fund, the Belgian Science Policy Office (Projects MO/39/011) and the Gieskes-Strijbis fund. The authors are also indebted to the BOF-GOA SOLAR Paint project of the University of Antwerp Research Council. The church wardens of the cathedral of St. Bavo and their chairman L. Collin are acknowledged for this agreeable collaboration. We also wish to thank conservators L. Depuydt, B. De Volder, F. Rosier, N. Laquiere and G. Steyaert as well as the members of the international committee. We are indebted to Prof. Em. A. Van Grevenstein-Kruse. ; Approved Most recent IF: 11.994
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:142376 Serial 5688
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Author van der Snickt, G.; Janssens, K.; Schalm, O.; Aibéo, C.; Kloust, H.; Alfeld, M.
Title James Ensor's pigment use: artistic and material evolution studied by means of portable X-ray fluorescence spectrometry Type A1 Journal article
Year 2010 Publication X-ray spectrometry Abbreviated Journal X-Ray Spectrom
Volume 39 Issue 2 Pages 103-111
Keywords A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
Abstract In this paper, portable X-ray fluorescence spectrometry (PXRF) was employed as a screening tool for determining and comparing the pigment use in a large series of paintings by the Belgian artist James Ensor (1860-1949). Benefits and drawbacks of PXRF as a method, and the instrument employed, are discussed from a practical, conservation and instrumental perspective. Regardless of several restrictions due to the set-up and/or the analytical method, it appeared feasible to document the evolution with time in Ensor's use of inorganic pigments and to correlate this technical evolution with stylistic developments, Nevertheless, it became clear that a full identification of all materials present can only be done by means of the analysis of (cross-sectioned) samples.
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000275959400006 Publication Date 2009-12-15
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0049-8246 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 1.298 Times cited 25 Open Access
Notes (up) ; This research was supported by the Interuniversity Attraction Poles Programme – Belgian Science Policy (IUAP VI/16). The staff of the different museums and private institutions is acknowledged for rendering their assistance to this research, i.e. by making all paintings available for analysis and authorising the publication of the images in this article. Therefore, a word of gratitude to Paul Huvenne, Yolande Deckers, Herwig Todts, Stef Antonissen, Gwen Borms and Lizet Klaassen of the Koninklijk Museum voor Schone Kunsten Antwerpen (KMSKA), Luuk Van der Loeff of the Kroller-Muller Museum in Otterlo and Mireille Engel, Barbara De Jong of the Musea aan Zee (MuZee), Patricia Jaspers of the Dexia bank, Hildegard Van de Velde of the KBC bank and Frederik Leen of the Koninklijke Musea voor Schone Kunsten van Belgie (KMSKB). Special thanks to Xavier Tricot and the other members of the Ensor committee for their valuable feedback. ; Approved Most recent IF: 1.298; 2010 IF: 1.661
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:82324 Serial 5680
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Author van der Snickt, G.; Miliani, C.; Janssens, K.; Brunetti, B.G.; Romani, A.; Rosi, F.; Walter, P.; Castaing, J.; de Nolf, W.; Klaassen, L.; Labarque, I.; Wittermann, R.
Title Material analyses of “Christ with singing and music-making Angels”, a late 15th-C panel painting attributed to Hans Memling and assistants : part 1 : non-invasive in situ investigations Type A1 Journal article
Year 2011 Publication Journal of analytical atomic spectrometry Abbreviated Journal J Anal Atom Spectrom
Volume 26 Issue 11 Pages 2216-2229
Keywords A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
Abstract In cultural heritage science, compositional data is traditionally obtained from works of art through the analysis of samples by means of various bench-top instruments (scanning electron microscope, Raman spectrometer, etc.). Alternatively, the object can be transported to a laboratory where it may be examined, usually by spectroscopic methods working in reflection mode. However, this paper describes how a complementary set of mobile and portable instruments was deployed in situ to gain a comprehensive view on the materials and related ageing compounds of an (almost) unmovable 15th-C polyptych, prior to and in preparation of the extraction of a limited number of samples. In line with the methodological approach discussed, PXRF was first employed as an efficient screening tool. The ensuing elemental data was supplemented by more specific information on both organic as inorganic materials supplied by reflection near- and mid-FTIR spectroscopy and fluorimetry. In completion, a limited number of diffraction patterns were collected with a mobile XRD instrument in order to identify the constituent crystalline phases in pigments, grounding materials and degradation products. In this way, it could be demonstrated how a rich array of colours was obtained by means of a limited palette of pigments: lead white, lead tin yellow, azurite, natural ultramarine, bone black, vermillion, madder lake, and a green copper-organo complex were detected and situated on the panels. Remarkably, next to chalk also gypsum was found in the ground layer(s) of this Western European easel painting. The relatively large surface of the background was covered with gold leaf; the analyses seem to point towards the labour-intensive water gilding technique. The versatility of this combination of analytical techniques was further illustrated by the accurate characterisation of degradation products affecting the readability and conservation of the painting: the overall presence of a calcium oxalate-based film of variable thickness was established. Nevertheless, further analysis of cross-sectioned samples was considered desirable in order to study the stratigraphy, to gain direct access to altered and sub-imposed layers and to allow highly detailed analysis of micrometric degradation products by state-of-the art techniques (i.e. synchrotron radiation).
Address
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000296021800010 Publication Date 2011-09-23
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0267-9477 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 3.379 Times cited 32 Open Access
Notes (up) ; This research was supported by the Interuniversity Attraction Poles Programme – Belgian Science Policy (IUAP VI/16). The text also presents results of GOA “XANES meets ELNES” (Research Fund University of Antwerp, Belgium) and from FWO (Brussels, Belgium) projects no. G.0103.04, G.0689.06 and G.0704.08. The staff of the Royal Museum of Fine Arts Antwerp is acknowledged for this pleasant cooperation and the authorisation for the publication of the images in this article. Therefore, a word of gratitude to Paul Huvenne, Yolande Deckers, Stef Antonissen and Gwen Borms. In addition, the authors would like to thank the MOLAB's team operators Chiari Anselmi and Federica Presciutti. MOLAB analyses have been carried out through the support of the EU within the 6th Framework Programme (Contract Eu-ARTECH, RII3-CT-2004-506171). ; Approved Most recent IF: 3.379; 2011 IF: 3.220
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:93680 Serial 5705
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Author Alfeld, M.; Pedroso, J.V.; van Hommes, M.E.; van der Snickt, G.; Tauber, G.; Blaas, J.; Haschke, M.; Erler, K.; Dik, J.; Janssens, K.
Title A mobile instrument for in situ scanning macro-XRF investigation of historical paintings Type A1 Journal article
Year 2013 Publication Journal of analytical atomic spectrometry Abbreviated Journal J Anal Atom Spectrom
Volume 28 Issue 5 Pages 760-767
Keywords A1 Journal article; AXES (Antwerp X-ray Analysis, Electrochemistry and Speciation)
Abstract Scanning macro-X-ray fluorescence analysis (MA-XRF) is rapidly being established as a technique for the investigation of historical paintings. The elemental distribution images acquired by this method allow for the visualization of hidden paint layers and thus provide insight into the artist's creative process and the painting's conservation history. Due to the lack of a dedicated, commercially available instrument the application of the technique was limited to a few groups that constructed their own instruments. We present the first commercially available XRF scanner for paintings, consisting of an X-ray tube mounted with a Silicon-Drift (SD) detector on a motorized stage to be moved in front of a painting. The scanner is capable of imaging the distribution of the main constituents of surface and sub-surface paint layers in an area of 80 by 60 square centimeters with dwell times below 10 ms and a lateral resolution below 100 mu m. The scanner features for a broad range of elements between Ti (Z = 22) and Mo (Z = 42) a count rate of more than 1000 counts per second (cps)?mass percent and detection limits of 100 ppm for measurements of 1 s duration. Next to a presentation of spectrometric figures of merit, the value of the technique is illustrated through a case study of a painting by Rembrandt's student Govert Flinck (1615-1660).
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Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language Wos 000317674200019 Publication Date 2013-03-22
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0267-9477 ISBN Additional Links UA library record; WoS full record; WoS citing articles
Impact Factor 3.379 Times cited 106 Open Access
Notes (up) ; This research was supported by the Interuniversity Attraction Poles Programme – Belgian Science Policy (IUAP VI/16). The text also presents the results of GOA “XANES meets ELNES” (Research Fund University of Antwerp, Belgium) and from FWO (Brussels, Belgium) projects no. G.0704.08 and G.01769.09. M. Alfeld receives a Ph. D. fellowship of the Research Foundation-Flanders (FWO). We thank J. Langerock for allowing us to examine the portable altar triptych shown in Fig. 5. ; Approved Most recent IF: 3.379; 2013 IF: 3.396
Call Number UA @ admin @ c:irua:108517 Serial 5453
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