For hundreds of years, analysis trumped preservation when it came to irreplaceable cultural heritage objects such as paintings, icons, and written works. Today, conservators avoid taking even tiny samples from works of priceless art, making photonics technology an invaluable addition to cultural heritage research.
Headwall hyperspectral imaging technology is mentioned, helping to solve a mystery surrounding a theft at the National Library of Sweden and assisting in Operation Night Watch at the Rijksmuseum, analyzing and planning the preservation of Rembrandt’s masterpiece.
