Raman spectroscopic applications in art and archaeology

Abstract

In the field of art investigation and the study of antique objects, Raman spectroscopy is becoming increasingly important. The first applications of confocal micro-Raman spectroscopy in archaeometry-often on the analysis of pigments in mediaeval manuscripts-a whole range of objects have been analysed. When dealing with precious artefacts, care has to be taken not to damage the object of art during the investigation. Fibre optics Raman instrumentation as applied for the in situ destructive analysis of objects of art. For positioning, the probe head can be mounted on a translation stage