Use of near- and mid-IR hyperspectral imaging for paint identification, as an aid for artwork authentication

In recent years various scientific practices have been adapted to the artwork analysis process and a set of techniques was found advantageous for conservation and restoration works. Apart of these applications, art market also benefits from scientific testing of artwork. Although these services are already available to support determination of the authenticity of traded pieces, they are very expensive and time consuming and therefore serve only very limited range of transactions. As a response for requirements of growing market there is a need for rapid and non-destructive methods empowering art authentication.