Comparative analysis of two self-portraits by Igor Vasiljev using non-invasive methods

Florence Heri-Tech - The Future of Heritage Science and Technologies

Djuric, M.^1 ; Jovanovic, V.^1 ; Velikic, Z.^2 ; Jovanovic, M.^1

ArtLab, Bulevar Kralja Aleksandra 391, Belgrade, Serbia^1

Institute of Physics, Pregrevica 118, Belgrade, Serbia^2

关键词: Comparative analysis;    Infrared reflectography;    Non-destructive diagnostic;    Noninvasive methods;    Paint applications;    Qualitative analysis;    UV induced fluorescence;    Visible reflectance;   

Others  :  https://iopscience.iop.org/article/10.1088/1757-899X/364/1/012065/pdf
DOI  :  10.1088/1757-899X/364/1/012065

来源: IOP

【 摘 要 】

This paper presents a research on materials and techniques used in two paintings dating from October 1952, signed by Igor Vasiljev. The aim of the research was to provide important answers from the art history standpoint and explain the existence of two almost identical self-portraits. Standard non-destructive diagnostic methods for painting examination were applied. First, a qualitative analysis of recorded visible reflectance spectra in 350-1100 nm domain was performed, and then its results were regarded along with the information obtained applying imaging techniques such as UV induced fluorescence, VIS-NIR-IR reflectography and radiography. Since the paintings do not have a varnish layer, the UV fluorescence gave especially interesting results, showing difference in used paints. Although the comparative colorimetric spectra indicated the use of same pigments but different mixtures in most points, the infrared reflectography showed very clearly the existence of underdrawing and significant changes in composition (pentimenti) on only one painting. In addition, the details of that painting observed under the great enlargement indicated great spontaneity of paint application. While a visual inspection of these two self-portraits suggested the same author - a very talented and creative Igor Vasiljev, a comparative analysis of the results obtained by spectroscopic and imaging techniques showed that there is a significant difference between them.