Analysis of works of art down to the nanometric scale

The material analysis of works of art aims to better understand the techniques of the ancient cultures and to preserve the cultural heritage for future generations. The analysis brings to light new and unique information for authentification, for conservation and more generally in the domain of history of artistic techniques. Until now, the methods were intensively developed and adapted to the specific, precious character of the works of art. Works of art are examined from the macro to the micro down to the nano scale thanks to TEM, atomic force microscopy, ion beam techniques, or synchrotron radiation spectrometries.Various examples will be developed in order to demonstrate the efficiency of the materials science methods for another entrance door to the cultural heritage artefacts.