An innovative electron paramagnetic resonance and statistical analysis approach to investigate the geographical origin of multi-layered samples from a Renaissance painting

The present study aims at unravelling whether an innovative, integrated method based on electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy and statistical analysis could shed light the mineralogical attribution of calcium carbonate, CaCO3, microcrystalline powders found in unusual preparation layer a Renaissance painting wood. Moreover, undertaken investigation was performed to assess, if possible, geographical provenance same carbonate powders. A specifically designed procedure operated previous methods applied ancient white colored marbles. Microscopic samples were taken from with aim keeping both their size mass minimum possible. All investigated consist highly complex, multi-layered, heterogeneous material, where aliquot is very limited. has been carried out non-destructive way, registering EPR spectra fragments, identifying diagnostic Mn(II) spectra, parameterizing them, comparing them most extensive available database through set robust methods. main results include calcite (marble rather than chalk), speciation reduction possible sites few localities marble exploited. Among Apuan Alps one likely provenances this calcite.