Multispectral image processing of paintings

Abstract A reflectographic apparatus, equipped with an image processor, has been used to obtain a trichromatic image of paintings comprehensive of both visible and infrared (700–1000nm) regions. The first step has been to reproduce with MIPP (multispectral image processing of paintings) images similar to those obtained with IR Kodak colour film. A good discrimination of both pigments and overpainting is possible with this technique which operates in a more flexible and powerful way than IR ‘false colour’ photography. Results are shown relative to a test panel and a tempera painting with extensive overpaint. The possibility of utilizing this technique to correlate a single pigment with its MIPP image is now under investigation.