Scientific analysis of materials and pigments inform the work of art conservators, to ensure that the most appropriate techniques and agents are employed during their interventions. Wherever possible, non-invasive analysis techniques are used. However, sometimes microinvasive samples are vital to understanding the composition of historic materials, such the pigments used in paint.

Venice’s painting samples archive was created mainly in the 1970s and 80s by scientist Prof. Lorenzo Lazzarini and it is one of the most important anywhere, a precious resource comprising over 5000 samples, which can be used to inform current interventions, greatly reducing the number of microinvasive samples which would need to be taken today.

The current project comprises reanalysing with modern techniques and digital cataloguing of this archive of microscopic samples. Modern microscopy and other analytical techniques allow much more to be learned from the samples today, than was originally the case. Also, many samples can now be analysed which were originally considered unsuitable specimens.

Early-career art conservation scientist Dr Rosa Costantini joins the small team at the Misericordia Scientific Laboratory to conduct the project. Prof Lazzarini is generously giving his time to support and inform Dr Costantini’s work, and the project is supervised by laboratory lead, Dr Stefano Volpin.

Venice in Peril has supported the Accademia’s science and conservation laboratories since their inception following the disastrous floods of 1966. Venice in Peril has committed to raising €18,000 to fund the second year of this project.

For more information about the Misericordia Scientific Laboratory visit the Gallerie dell’Accademia website. Follow to Learn More