Mussey Associates provides technical analysis to support object treatment, authentication, as well as general scholarship.

    Typical applications include:

    • Documenting finishes and paints and chemically characterizing the composition of specific layers using ultraviolet light microscopy.
    • Identifying pigments and fillers used to formulate paints and stains
    • Identifying common plant and hair fibers used to weave fabrics and produce paper
    • Identifying both hard and soft wood species by microscopic anatomical structure

    We also use a variety of examination techniques to document construction, labels, inscriptions, and witness marks, including x-radiography, ultraviolet and infrared photography.

    Mussey Associates also works with outside analytical firms to obtain qualitative chemical and elemental analysis as needed.