The examination of works of art using in situ XRF line and area scans

Abstract Spatially resolved element distributions generated by in situ X‐ray fluorescence (XRF) line and area scans are shown to provide information about works of art which may not be obtainable from single spot spectra. In addition to generating visually powerful element maps and line profiles, this method also generates a spectrum at each image point, and this large data set is available for additional analysis. When generating line and area scans in the study of works of art, the collection parameters—including X‐ray tube choice, spot size, step size, and scan time—must be optimized not only to produce the best signal, but also to perform the analysis within constraints imposed to ensure the security or safety of the object. Examples of the application of this method to several classes of works of art are presented, including illuminated manuscripts, paintings, bronze sculpture, and glazed ceramics. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.