© 2025 All Rights Reserved.
Our unique skills in pigment, binder and multilayer analysis make us an essential partner for museum curators, restorers, and cultural heritage experts.
reveal the secrets of Works of Art
The pigments used in works of art are essential to understanding their history, technique and state of conservation. Thanks to our cutting-edge technologies, we are able to precisely analyze the chemical composition of pigments, whether they are of mineral, vegetable or synthetic origin. Our analyzes make it possible to trace the origin of materials, verify their authenticity, and identify possible alterations due to environmental factors or previous restorations.
The results of our analyzes provide crucial information for curators, allowing more precise and respectful intervention of the works, while guaranteeing their long-term integrity.
understand the subject matter heart
Binders play a central role in the stability and appearance of works of art. They influence not only the texture and brilliance of colors, but also the durability of pigments over time. CNEP excels in the analysis of binders, whether oil, gum, wax or natural and synthetic resins.
Our physico-chemical analysis methods make it possible to identify the exact composition of binders and their state of degradation, thus offering suitable solutions for their conservation. This expertise is particularly valuable for restorers seeking to maintain the original appearance of works while ensuring their protection against factors of degradation.
discover and reveal polychromies
Artworks, especially paintings, are often made up of multiple layers of materials on top of each other. Understanding the structure of these multilayers is essential for an efficient and respectful restoration of the work. At CNEP, we master the detailed analysis of successive layers of paint, varnish, and undercoats, using advanced techniques such as infrared spectroscopy, electron microscopy and chromatography.
This approach allows us to reveal the artistic techniques used, to identify previous interventions, and to assess the risks of future degradation. By providing a complete picture of the work’s composition, we help curators make informed decisions to preserve these artistic treasures.
The CNEP is not limited to providing scientific analyses: we are also committed to actively supporting museum curators, restorers, and heritage experts in their daily missions. Our detailed reporting and ability to interpret complex data are valuable tools to guide conservation and restoration strategies.
Whether you are faced with a work requiring rapid evaluation or a long-term conservation project, the CNEP is your ideal partner to guarantee the preservation and enhancement of your artistic heritage.
Exceptional cultural projects: Some of our achievements
Service de
Restauration du Patrimoine de la Mairie de Toulouse
Polychromies of the sculptures of the Basilica of St Sernin (Toulouse)
DRAC Auvergne Rhône Alpes
Polychromies of the astronomical clock – St Jean Cathedral (Lyon)
Caroline SNYERS
Paintings from Brotteaux Station (Lyon)
Painted gilded leathers from the 16th century from the Nice Museum and painted gilded leathers from the 17th century from
Château de Mme de Maintenon – (Eure et Loir)
Gilles GAULTIER
Study of painted decorations – Church of St-Pierre-Le-Jeune (Strasbourg)
© 2025 All Rights Reserved.
The CNEP will be in very reduced activity from August 10 to 15, 2020, contact us preferably after this period.
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