Forensic Art History: the Ädel Painting Dispute 1839-1841

A multidisciplinary investigation combining forensic art history and scientific analysis has resolved an 180-year-old dispute over the pigments used by 19th-century Swedish painter Anders Erik Ädel. The study, which analyzed judicial protocols alongside non-invasive X-ray fluorescence (XRF) and spectroscopic methods, revealed that Ädel indeed used more costly pigments than agreed upon in his contract with client Erik Olofsson. This finding not only validates Ädel's claim from 1839 but also provides unprecedented insights into his painting techniques and materials, contributing to a deeper understanding of his artistic practice. The research underscores the value of integrating historical records with advanced scientific methods to reinterpret art history, particularly for UNESCO-listed sites like Hälsingland's decorated farmhouses.

Nyström, I., Thomas, J., Fors, Y., Friis, L., Assis, A., & Thuresson, K. (2018). Forensic Art History: the Ädel Painting Dispute 1839-1841. Conservation Science in Cultural Heritage, Vol 17 (2017). https://doi.org/10.6092/ISSN.1973-9494/7941