The insiTUMlab Spectral Database is a comprehensive, open-access repository of analytical data dedicated to materials relevant to historical and cultural heritage. An exhaustive and reliable database is essential for the accurate characterization of unknown or naturally degraded materials found in works of art. Therefore, great effort is invested in building a consistent collection of high-quality spectra recorded on reference materials—including those used historically by artists—as well as on naturally and artificially aged specimens.
At the core of the database is the historical materials collection of the Chair of Conservation-Restoration, Art Technology and Conservation Science at the Technical University of Munich (TUM). This collection encompasses a wide range of historical and artistic materials, such as natural and synthetic inorganic pigments, as well as organic colorants, minerals, binding media, historical restoration products, many of which are no longer commercially available.
In addition, the database can count on the contribution of partners and their valuable historical material collections, such as Doerner Institut, Deutsches Museum and Stuttgart State Academy of Art and Design.
The Spectral Library is hosted on TUM’s institutional open-access repository and can be freely accessed at: link coming soon.