Painting Authentication Project for Sotheby’s London

As well as 3D laser applications, UCL is developing technological tools for the art and heritage sector, for use in authentication, registration, attribution and conservation. 

Raman spectroscopy (RS), an analysis of pigment by light rays, is used in the identification of pigments in paintings and works on paper (drawings, maps, prints, stamps).  Raman Spectroscopy was used by UCL Professor Robin Clark (UCL Chemistry) and Libby Sheldon (UCL History of Art) to authenticate the pigments in the painting by Johannes Vermeer (Delft 1632-1675) of a Young Woman Seated at The Virginals, which sold at Sotheby’s London on 7 July 2004 for £16,245,600.
 
Illustration 2 –Johannes Vermeer (Delft 1632-1675) of a Young Woman Seated at The Virginals
Courtesy Sotheby’s London