Laser Cleaning of Art

Abstract

Laser cleaning of the surfaces using lasers is a valuable addition to the conservator’s toolbox as it offers a highly selective, reliable and precise method of removing layers of corrosion, pollution, unwanted paint and other surface coatings. It is also an extremely controllable alternative to help remove unsightly and damaging layers from the surface of artwork in a wide range of sculptural materials including marble, bronze, ivory and aluminum. Lasers have been successfully used to clean prehistoric artifacts, sculptures and monuments, while preserving patina, fine surface detail and important surface coatings. We describe some of these applications of laser cleaning of art.