Cleaning of historical scientific instruments: first analytical studies

Michela Albano, Giacomo Fiocco, Claudia Invernizzi, Maurizio Licchelli, Marco Malagodi, Raffaella Marotti, Curzio Merlo, Tommaso Rovetta, Daniela Comelli

Abstract

Over the recent decades, the identification of scientific instruments as cultural heritage has drawn attention to their preservation, and today a lack of knowledge about this topic is drastically evident. Varnishes used during the 18th century in Europe and applied as a protective layer on brass components were known as imitation of Chinese lacquer coming from the oriental tradition. These varnishes were well considered for aesthetic and mechanical properties at the time which the manufacturing reached its apogee, and today they still protect the surface of a great number of historical masterpieces. A non-invasive methodology is employed to characterize the varnish reproduced with a traditional recipe and to monitor the effect of three cleaning methods widely used within the restorers community.

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IMEKO-TC4-METROARCHAEO-2019-98.pdf

DOI

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IMEKO TC

TC4 - Measurement of Electrical Quantities

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