Non-invasive surface and sub-surface analysis of steel gauntlets by handheld optical coherence tomography

Studying artworks' surface morphology and stratigraphy is crucial for their interpretation, understanding, restoration, and preservation. Over the past twenty years, Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) has been gradually implemented in art conservation and archaeology. With advancements in technology and the miniaturisation of optical components, a handheld OCT probe has been developed, enabling the investigation of areas inaccessible to traditional benchtop instruments. In this study, we demonstrate the application of handheld OCT to examine the morphological characteristics of four gauntlets conserved at the Luigi Marzoli Museum in Brescia, Italy, providing new insights into their state of conservation. The versatility of the handheld OCT probe increases the potential and applicability of OCT for non-invasive analysis of cultural heritage, even in areas not easy to probe by traditional bench-top instruments.