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Science to the rescue of the world’s heritage By studying the alteration processes that affect works of art, science helps to preserve them. It also makes it possible to undertake detailed modeling of architectural masterpieces and highlight the expertise of humanity’s first artists. Digitizing the Petit Trianon ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- On line since 2010, the virtual model of the Petit Trianon, in Versailles, is constantly being enhanced. This digital reconstruction enables the visitor to take a virtual stroll through the various rooms of the neoclassical masterpiece built by Louis XV, and discover all its treasures, including paintings, moldings, mirrors, curtains and silks. The furniture can be manipulated at will in order to appreciate its richness. In 2011, the impressive grand staircase was put on line and can be accessed together with the other ground-floor rooms. The apartments, refurnished by Empress Marie Louise in 1811 and by the Duchesss of Orléans in 1839, will soon be open to the public as well. In addition to showcasing this jewel of French heritage, the project is a research tool for digitization and 3D modeling. Moreover, it includes an extensive database dubbed Nubes, which allows all the components of a building to be digitally archived so as to study the various stages in its history. 3D-reconstruction of the great dining room in the Petit Trianon. Inset: Marie-Antoinette’s bedroom. This reconstruction required detailed modeling of the paneling, fabrics and reflecting properties of the mirror. Why van Gogh’s Sunflowers are losing their shine Researchers have discovered why certain paintings of the nineteenth century, and in particular those by van Gogh, are losing their original vividness. In chrome yellow, a pigment widely used at the time, chromium VI is being reduced to chromium III. To prevent darkening of van Gogh’s masterpieces, the scientists recommend that their exposure to daylight should be limited, since UV radiation facilitates this reaction. Analytical Chemistry February 2011 26 A year at CNRS 2011


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