The scientific investigation of artwork and archaeological artefacts: Raman microscopy as a structural, analytical and forensic tool

The impact of Raman microscopy on the study of artwork and archaeological artefacts is outlined. Important recent case studies are presented to illustrate the power of the technique to answer - either alone or in conjunction with other techniques - key questions of great art historical, conservational, cultural, archaeological and scientific interest. Raman microscopy also offers, via pigment identification, the possibility of testing the attribution of artwork, a matter which should be of great concern to galleries, auction houses and museums.