Organic Materials

Wood, textile fibres, parchment… The study of organic materials requires diverse and specific analytical approaches.

The study of wood: xylology

Radiocarbone dating of wood

Certifying a wooden object by identifying the species used is becoming a necessity on the art market (authentications, CITES permits, etc.).

From centimeter-sized samples or by direct surface observation of the object, microscopic structures can be examined to identify the wood species.
Anatomical details are revealed using a scalpel, razor and sandpaper, then observed under a stereomicroscope and optical microscopy. .

Cross-section of a sample of the excelsa species (Iroko) from a Royal Bamoun seat in Cameroon.

Identification of textiles fibres, papers, parchments

Papers (rag paper, mechanical pulp paper, etc.), fibres of a canvas (flax, hemp, silk, etc.) or animal skins (parchment or vellum) are studied using optical and scanning electron microscopy, with direct observation of the surface and on sections.

Textiles fibres, whether natural or chemical, have characteristic morphologies and structures. Flax fibres for instance are characterised by well-marked transverse dislocations and nodes, as well as a polygonal fibre shape with sharp points and a narrow lumen.

Silk fibres are smooth and very fine. In cross-section, they have a specific triangular shape. The fibres can also be grouped in pairs along the short side of the triangle. These correspond to the original organisation of the silk thread into two adjoining strands, before the sericin coating remove (scouring).

Parchments, made from animal skins, has the characteristic reticulated structure of the intertwining collagen fibres that make up the skin, or more precisely the dermis.