Microanalysis Characterization of Ancient Stained Glasses

The scanning electron microscopy (SEM) technique combined with an EDXRS system has been applied to the study of ancient glasses, to determine whether repairs have been carried out or substitutions made of damaged parts [1]. In this work, we exploit image processing technique in order to enhance the SEM digital image, to improve its readability and, therefore, the identification of significant details and microscopic structure as well as to elucidate the execution technique and the use of pigments. We investigated some frescoes and stained glasses of XIV-XV centuries in the Basilica of St. Petronio in Bologna; further results have been obtained in the analysis of glass manufacture and conservation of the stained glasses in Duomo of Siena, made by Duccio di Boninsegna, representing the very first object of this kind produced in Italy.