Special Issue Cover
Dear Colleagues,
The scientific analysis prior to any interventive or preventive conservation of painted artifacts—ranging from panel paintings to polychrome sculptures—demands an integrated, science‑driven approach that balances analytical rigor with conservation practicality. This Special Issue aims to unify contributions that bridge scientific analysis and conservation methods to safeguard painted cultural heritage. We welcome original research, case studies, reviews, and methodological innovations that highlight imaging techniques, non-invasive and micro-analytical methods, photogrammetry, 3D reconstruction and interventive or preventive methods applied to important historical artifacts. This Special Issue seeks to present a multi-disciplinary dialog, inspiring conservation scientists, conservators and collection keepers with effective conservation techniques—enhancing both our understanding and stewardship of painted cultural heritage for future generations.
This Special Issue aims to address theoretical, practical and fundamental research devoted to the study of interventive and preventive conservation in painted objects from a broad range of perspectives. Contributions are therefore invited, but not restricted, on the following topics:
-In situ conservation of painted artifacts;
-Non-invasive approaches to the study of paintings (microscopy, spectroscopy, imaging, etc.);
-Micro-invasive analytical techniques (mass spectrometry-based techniques, etc.);
-Development of new scientific strategies for pigments, bind medium or varnish investigation;
-VOCs and display in a collection context;
-Monitoring indoor environmental parameters;
-Light sensitivity and display;
-Case studies focusing on panel paintings, easel paintings or polychrome objects;
-Conservation techniques and challenges.
Guest Editors
Dr. Christos Karydis, Ionian University
Dr. Eleni Kouloumpi, National Gallery- Alex.Soutsos Museum
Dr. Agathi-Anthoula Kaminari, University of West Attica
