The Center for Scientific Studies in the Arts' Science for Art Fall 2018 Speaker Series welcomes Dr. Giovanni Verri on September 21st.

Join us for a lecture and discussion on the use of photo-induced luminescence techniques for the characterisation of cultural heritage. In particular, and by means of a number of case studies, it will highlight the effects of absorption of luminescence emission by coloured compounds and how these effects can be taken into consideration when interpreting luminescence data.

Dr. Verri is a Reader and coordinates an MA in Conservation of Buddhist Art at the Courtauld Institute of Art. He received his Ph.D. in Physics from the University of Ferrara (IT) focusing on technical imaging of works of art.

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Full Abstract:

When excited with electromagnetic radiation, materials may emit radiation at lower energy. In particular, ultraviolet-induced luminescence spectroscopy and imaging are commonly used techniques for the characterisation of painting materials, such as organic binders and colorants, and inorganic pigments. However, their interpretation is strongly connected to both the experimental setup used and the physical and chemical interactions among materials of which a paint layer is composed. This presentation will discuss the use of photo-induced luminescence techniques for the characterisation of cultural heritage, their advantages and limitations. In particular, and by means of a number of case studies, it will highlight the effects of absorption of luminescence emission by coloured compounds and how these effects can be taken into consideration when interpreting luminescence data.