Wooden sculptures from XVII and XVIII centuries in the region of Asti (Italy): scientific identification of the species

This paper deals with the scientific identification of species utilized for the production of wooden sculptures collected into an exhibition of statues dated back to XVII – XVIII centuries, coming from the city of Asti and the surrounding region (Northwest Italy). Problems in sample drawing are analyzed, together with the results, described per period and author on the basis of the identified species. Almost all the statues were made of poplar or willow wood, except two, made of walnut wood. This paper also describes the principal technological characteristics of identified woods, considering specifically their utilization for carving.