By correlating the structural–functional dimensional data with a series of archaeometric and chemometric characteristics determined by dendrochronological analysis and by three instrumental techniques (Scanning Electronic Microscopy, coupled with Energy Dispersive X-ray, µ-FTIR Spectroscopy and Thermal Analysis in Dynamic Mode), a Stradivarius violin was authenticated as having been made by one of the two Stradivari sons (Francesco or Omobono) in 1723. It should be noted that the “petite” type violin, which comes from a private collection and was recently purchased on the open market, has the original label and is in a poor preservation state. There is only one revarnishing intervention on the violin, and it is older than 80 years. There have been several attempts at sampling (all of which are under 30 years old) for the wooden support and varnish (from the top cover of the resonance box), but the existence of some analysis results is unknown. The dimensional characteristics of the structural–functional components place the violin in “petite violins”, and it is one of the more than 40 still preserved as an authentic artifact.

This paper presents the archaeometric and chemometric authentication of a Renaissance-style oil painting on linen canvas, with plaster and barium sulphate-based primer preparation and bone glue as binder. By optical microscopy (OM), stereomicroscopy (SOM), scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDX) and attenuated total reflectance–Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR), a series of archaeometric characteristics were identified: the grain size of the chemical components of the paint layers, the 3D porosity distribution of the pigments, the degree of penetration between the paint layers and the varnish and between the varnish and the oxidatively anchored dirt, and the typology of the craquelure (craquelure network arrangement and morphology). By correlating the results obtained, it was possible to estimate the period of the painting as 1660 ± 3 years.

This study examines the forensic classification and identification of counterfeit banknotes through an integrated analysis of empirical observations obtained during field and laboratory investigations. Particular attention is given to the procedural workflow of forensic examination and to the complementary use of macroscopic, microscopic, optical, and physicochemical methods. Preliminary field assessments were conducted using document examination loupes and other optical magnification devices, while laboratory investigations employed advanced analytical systems and specialized software to characterize the substrate, printing inks, graphic elements, and security features. The findings demonstrate that reliable counterfeit banknote identification cannot be based solely on visual inspection. A multidisciplinary approach integrating morphological, optical, and compositional evidence is essential for distinguishing sophisticated counterfeits from genuine banknotes and for formulating scientifically robust forensic conclusions. This study also highlights the need for continuously updated examination procedures in response to the increasing technological sophistication of banknote counterfeiting.

This paper presents the authentication analysis of a bronze bust of Napoleon I, attributed to the Italian artist Renzo Colombo (1856–1885) based on his signature and other casting and molding inscriptions. The bust was made using the lost wax technique and artificially patinated in the Pinédo variant workshop. This study combined historiographical research (using the specialized literature) with data from auction catalogs. These were compared with photographs of the entire bust and close-up images of key areas, including anthropomorphic features, clothing, inscriptions, and structural and ornamental details. The condition of the bust and its historical and chemical characteristics were assessed through direct analysis with magnifying tools and indirect analysis using scanning electron microscopy with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDX).