Detecting past attempts to restore two important works of art

Chemistry plays a fundamental role in the preservation of our heritage. Artistic and archaeological materials deteriorate over time due to their interaction with the environment, and human intervention can trigger unexpected deterioration pathways. Previous intervention can also sometimes obscure information regarding the original techniques or the materials used to execute the artwork. Our studies of past intervention and attempts to conserve the lunette of the church of Santa Maria la Vetere in Militello Val di Catania (Italy) and Donatello's carved marble panels of the pulpit of the Duomo of Prato (Italy) are discussed as two examples of how chemistry can provide guidance for conservators and fill gaps in the known life of works of art.