My research focuses on the development of protocols for the analysis of samples from works of art, samples received from museum curators who need information for a variety of purposes: authentication, dating, provenance, but most often for conservation and restoration purposes. Sample sizes fall into the microgram to nanogram range requiring the use of technology that can sort out the components of such small samples. Frequent use is made of SEM-EDX, microFTIR, liquid and gas MS and optical microscopy. Samples come from easel paintings, ceramics, metal objects, textiles and tapestries, and furniture. One current project is the identification of varnish in the microsamples obtained from easel paintings. Acquisition of a direct insertion probe for an MS has allowed us to pursue this goal.

	Dr. DePhillips is shown here with Julie Tomaino, working on art restoration and authentication.