A painting signed 'L daVinci': Analysis reveals Renaissance pigments and later alterations

Researchers at Uppsala University have analyzed the color pigments in a historical painting signed "L daVinci. " Most of the pigments are consistent with materials used during the Renaissance, while a more recent pigment appears to be. This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies.

The study demonstrates how materials science can provide new pieces of the puzzle behind the history of a work of art. When it was auctioned at Christie's in London in 1928 and 1929, it was attributed to the Renaissance painter Titian.

Later, a signature reading "L daVinci" was discovered, followed by a word that is likely the Latin pinxit, which means "painted. " To investigate the materials used, the owners sought the assistance of researchers at the Department of Materials Science and Engineering at Uppsala. In total, the researchers identified 13 pigments.

In two areas of the painting, the researchers found Prussian blue, a synthetic pigment that was not produced until the early 18th century. So, finding new pigments in limited areas does not necessarily mean that a painting is a forgery.

The results of the material analysis alone are not enough to determine who painted the artwork. At the same time, the study demonstrates how analytical methods from materials science can be applied to unexpected questions.

Materials science analyses can provide concrete answers to questions about art and archaeological artifacts.

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