Optical Analysis of Historical Prints by the Method of Digital Microscopy

Innovation Showcase
Bibiana Jancovicova  

One of the primary and main goals of my research is the creation of a detailed methodology for photographing graphics sheets with a digital microscope. The method of digital microscopy is commonly encountered during the process of conservation and restoration of works created on paper at various stages of research. A common example of using this form of imaging is, for example, determining the fiber composition of a paper carrier. Regarding the identification of the technology used in the color layers on the graphic sheet, we encounter detailed chemical-technological research, but optical analysis is not so much emphasized. Determining the graphic technique usually takes place on restored works by visual observation. If it is a problematic identification, an optical microscope is used in order to confirm or refute some typical features of the graphic techniques used. However, optical analysis with a digital microscope offers much more possibilities than capturing the properties, structures and characteristics of a color layer on a paper carrier, whether it is the nature of the surface, the expression of lines, or the system of points.