Colorimetric Evaluation of a Reintegration via Spectral Imaging-Case Study: Nasrid Tiling Panel from the Alhambra of Granada (Spain).

Color reintegration is a restoration treatment that involves applying paint or colored plaster to an object of cultural heritage to facilitate its perception and understanding. This study examines the impact of lighting on the visual appearance of one such restored piece: a tiled skirting panel from the Nasrid period (1238-1492), permanently on display at the Museum of the Alhambra (Spain). Spectral images in the range of 380-1080 nm were obtained using a hyperspectral image scanner.

Spectral Image Processing for Museum Lighting Using CIE LED Illuminants.

This work presents a spectral color-imaging procedure for the detailed colorimetric study of real artworks under arbitrary illuminants. The results demonstrate this approach to be a powerful tool for art and heritage professionals when deciding which illumination to use in museums, or which conservation or restoration techniques best maintain the color appearance of the original piece under any illuminant. Spectral imaging technology overcomes the limitations of common area-based point-measurement devices such as spectrophotometers, allowing a local study either pixelwise or by selected areas.