A SWIR hyperspectral imaging system for art history and art conservation

Abstract

PRISMS is a portable hyperspectral imaging system designed for high resolution, in situ, remote imaging of paintings at inaccessible heights from the ground level. It currently operates from 400nm to 1700nm to provide detailed conservation monitoring, material identification and to assist art historical investigations for wall paintings. The system can be fitted with a variety of imagers to operate in the visible, near infrared and short wave infrared at close range and remotely. This talk will focus on the SWIR (short wave infrared) hyperspectral imager and its applications in art history and art conservation. The filtering system in the SWIR is based on an AOTF (acousto-optical tunable filter) system developed by Gooch & Housego that operates between 900nm and 1700nm which provides fast switching between the spectral bands as well as full flexibility in terms of central wavelength and bandwidth of the filters. Applications in imaging of underdrawings (preparatory sketches) beneath oil paintings and identification of paint materials will be presented.