Archaeometry lessons
If natural sciences deal with artistic and cultural assets, then the work should be the point of focus in its cultural significance and material integrity. Archaeometry in the broader sense is understood as an exploration of works of art, monuments as well as archaeological and ethnological works using methods from natural sciences. The objective of these studies can be a contribution to art technology or preservation.
The material analysis for identifying components and their transformation products plays a key role when examining works of art using methods from natural sciences. The aim is to develop methods that involve minimum or no destruction, but which have technical and financial limitations. Material analysis also plays a key role in research and education; it is mainly applied to works of art from the special classes of the Restoration study programme.
The study of ageing and damage processes as well as the suitability and durability of preservation/restoration methods is called “Conservation Science”. Methods of material sciences are also used in addition to material analysis. Another field of activity is recording of the environmental conditions of the works of art. The basics are taught during the lessons.
Natural science based research and education in the Restoration study programme are carried out in the laboratory for archaeometry. Traditionally, microscopy and microchemical analysis cover a part of the material examination. Thanks to generous support from public authorities, the laboratory equipment now includes pyrolysis gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GC-MS), infrared microscopy (FTIR) and a scanning electron microscope/microprobe (SEM-EDX) among other things. The subject area is also associated with the provision of radio-diagnostic methods such as X-ray radiography (Xray), infrared reflectography (IRR) and UV fluorescence.
The foundation course includes a series of lectures with exercises which introduces students to the relevant basics of physics and chemistry. Internships in the laboratory for microscopy and tasks in the field of chemistry teach working techniques and safety aspects and consolidate what is taught during the lectures. The in-depth teaching in the main course focusses on the application of natural sciences in concrete projects. Students practice microscopic techniques. Material analyses are discussed in individual counselling sessions and their application is developed. In addition, the main course offers advanced seminars and courses along with guest lectures.
The seminar paper allows students to systematically work on questions related to natural sciences in the laboratory. Diploma theses are supported by analyses, material science studies and counselling. In addition, dissertation projects are supervised by graduate restorers specialising in natural sciences.
Subject area professor
