X-ray fluorescence and imaging analyses of paintings by the Brazilian artist Oscar Pereira Da Silva

• Performed Energy-Dispersive X-Ray Fluorescence spectroscopy and image analysis to characterize easel paintings
• The analyses allow the identification of the pigments elements
• Intensity ratio between the emitted characteristic rays is affected by the absorption of the outgoing rays.
• Image analysis allow some identification as hidden underlying lines,

Non-destructive analyses, such as EDXRF (Energy-Dispersive X-Ray Fluorescence) spectroscopy, and imaging were used to characterize easel paintings. The analyzed objects are from the collection of the Pinacoteca do Estado de São Paulo. EDXRF results allowed us to identify the chemical elements present in the pigments, showing the use of many Fe-based pigments, modern pigments, such as cobalt blue and cadmium yellow, as well as white pigments containing lead and zinc used by the artist in different layers. Imaging analysis was useful to identify the state of conservation, the localization of old and new restorations and also to detect and unveil the underlying drawings revealing the artist's creative processes.