The technical study, which complemented second-year coursework in instrumental analysis, focused on a creamware hunting jug from the Winterthur Museum collection. The study made use of advanced analytical techniques to delve into the identification of artists materials and restoration materials.

Multiple analytical methods were used during the year-long project.
  • Ultraviolet light examination
  • X-radiography
  • Fourier transmission infrared spectroscopy (FTIR)
  • Energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy (XRF)
  • Scanning electron microscopy/energy dispersive spectrometry (SEM-EDS)
  • Raman spectroscopy
  • X-ray diffraction
  • Gas chromatography mass spectroscopy (GC-MS)

The technical study informed treatment decisions, which focused on reversing misaligned old repairs, stabilizing structure, and visually unifying appearance through filling and inpainting. This aspect of the project is detailed in the treatment section.
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Cross-section X1, pink enamel A. 40x total magnification, 2 ms exposure B. back-scattered electron image, right outer edge of sample C. EDS false color map showing Si (red), Pb (blue), and Fe (green) D. EDS false color map showing Si (red), Al (green), and Pb (blue)
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Before treatment, normal lighting, proper right
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Before treatment, long-wave UV illumination showing fills
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X-radiograph of neck, showing voids along break edges, image captured from 60 kV, 2 mA, 60 sec exposure
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