FORS Spectral Database of Historical Pigments in Different Binders

Abstract

Presents the development of a fiber optics reflectance spectra (FORS) database of 54 historical pigments commonly used in art. The database is available online and stores a large collection of spectroscopic data that can be downloaded free. The database was built by collecting the reflectance spectra of the pigments both in pure powder and applied with gum Arabic, egg tempera, linseed oil, and fresco, aiming to provide a knowledge base for evaluation of the effect of different binders on the pigments' spectral features. The results confirmed the effectiveness of the FORS system for non-invasive identification of pigments in different binders. Its small dimensions, low cost, and other significant features such as instrument mobility and rapid data collection make it well suited to the needs of professional art examination in the field. This article highlights the great potential of this database for pigment identification and its utility in providing, for the first time, the additional possibility of freely download all spectroscopic data that would be of significant value as a reference for other FORS researchers in this field.