Laser Interferometry and Holography for Analysis of Artworks

Laser Interferometry and Holography are well-established, highly sensitive techniques for non-destructive testing and analysis. These techniques can be usefully applied in the field of Historical and Cultural Heritage conservation, for reconstruction of 3D structure of the object under observation and its deformation under stress. A typical example of application of laser interferometry is the study of externally induced vibrations of frescoes for individuation of defects, layer-to-layer detachments, delaminations and surface cracks. On a smaller scale, holographic and interferometric techniques can be used for precise determination of surface profiles and study of small changes of the object in time. In this paper we discuss the application of interferometric methods for reconstruction of surface profiles of paintings and statuettes and their changes under the effect of external perturbations. Results are also discussed on application of real-time speckle interferometry for the study of surface deformations under stress.