Detection and study of a palimpsest: macro-X-ray fluorescence scanning in the Loggia Room of Galatea

Within the frame of a collaboration among the Accademia Nazionale dei Lincei, XGLab-Bruker and ENEA, some of the Renaissance wall paintings decorating Villa Farnesina interiors have been investigated by macro-X-ray fluorescence (MAXRF). In this paper is presented and discussed a case study concerning some sketches discovered about 50 years ago during the detachment of painted curtains. Results have brought to light a palimpsest whose discussion calls into question the attribution proposed when it has been discovered.