Authenticity screening of stained glass windows using optical spectroscopy

Area of Science:

• Heritage science
• Materials science
• Analytical chemistry

Background:

• Heritage preservation relies on authenticity, requiring interdisciplinary approaches.
• Traditional analytical dating methods are often destructive and time-consuming.
• Museums increasingly require non-destructive techniques for artifact analysis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore optical spectroscopy as a non-destructive method for authenticating stained glass.
• To assess the feasibility of using low-cost optical spectrum analyzers for heritage dating.
• To provide an instant tool for authenticity assessment during conservation.

Main Methods:

• Application of optical spectroscopy on two 14th-century stained glass panels.
• Simultaneous mapping of spectral signatures using a low-cost optical spectrum analyzer.
• Integration of art historical, archaeological, and applied research.

Main Results:

• The study successfully identified spectral signatures indicative of the production period.
• The analyzed stained glass panels were re-dated to the 19th century.
• Optical spectroscopy provided rapid insights into the authenticity of the stained glass.

Conclusions:

• Optical spectroscopy is a viable non-destructive technique for authenticating stained glass.
• This method offers an immediate tool for heritage conservation and authenticity verification.
• The findings support informed decision-making in heritage preservation and deontological questions.