Image processing for the analysis and conservation of paintings: opportunities and challenges

The application of science and engineering to the analysis of priceless paintings and statues dates back several centuries. However, only over the past few decades have analytical methods developed in the physical sciences been able to glean information, from the past and contribute to the analysis, conservation, and dissemination of works of art. By specifically focusing on the visual arts (e.g., on the binomial image processing and paintings), it is the purpose of this column to: 1) sketch the main applications that could benefit from the introduction of ad hoc image processing tools, 2) outline the state-of-the-art, 3) describe the main peculiarities of this field, and 4) discuss the main obstacles impeding a more fruitful cooperation between the image processing community and art historians, restorers, and artists in general.