X-Ray Fluorescence Analysis of Medieval Treasured Artworks, Coins, and Textiles
Abstract
[EN] In this paper we present the elemental composition analyses carried out with a portable X-Ray Fluorescence spectrometer on a selection of medieval artifacts from Toledo Cathedral and the Museo Arqueológico Nacional in Madrid. We discuss the advantages and limitations of surface analytical techniques on historical metal objects that have been manipulated or have patinas whose composition does not correspond to that of the original metal. Our results provide information on historical and technological issues such as gilding techniques, ways of obtaining silver, and the composition of medieval coins.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Cultural Heritage Materials Analysis
Metallurgy and Cultural Artifacts
X-ray Spectroscopy and Fluorescence Analysis
Publication details
- Journal / source
- BRILL eBooks
- Pages
- 599–637
- Publication date
- 5 January 2026
- Language
- EN
- Document type
- Book chapter