The Art of Discovery: CT Scanning of Fine Art and Antiques

When a beautifully crafted ceramic vase believed to date back to 1899 came into the possession of a private collector, it was clear that the piece deserved closer inspection. The ornate design and possible origins—attributed to Ed Stellmacher of Amphora RStK—make it a candidate for historical and artistic significance. Rather than risk damaging the piece with invasive techniques, the client turned to Nel PreTech Corporation for advanced, non-destructive analysis.

Using high-resolution industrial CT scanning, we capture detailed internal images of the vase to help uncover clues that may support expert review, authentication, and preservation efforts.

CT Scanning and Art Analysis: The Modern Approach

Computed Tomography (CT) scanning isn’t just for aerospace components and medical devices—it has emerged as a valuable tool in the art world, offering an unprecedented view beneath the surface of fine art, antiques, and artifacts.

Nel PreTech uses Zeiss Metrotom CT systems capable of producing accurate, high-resolution scans that reveal material composition, internal structures, and signs of restoration—all without altering or harming the object.

In the case of this Amphora vase, our goal is to assist the client by generating a comprehensive internal dataset that may reveal:

• Material Composition – Detecting shifts in density that suggest different clay bodies or manufacturing techniques.
  
  
• Assembly Methods – Understanding how the object was constructed through layered scans.
  
  
• Bond Lines and Adhesives – Locating any repairs or alterations invisible to the human eye.
  
  
• Comparative Structures – Offering a reference point for comparison to other known works by the same artist or manufacturer.
  
  

This objective scan data will ultimately support the client in their discussions with art historians, collectors, conservators, and other experts.

A Non-Invasive Solution for Priceless Works

One of the most significant advantages of CT scanning in the art world is that it is entirely non-destructive. Where traditional analysis methods might involve scraping, probing, or dismantling, CT scanning offers a non-contact, three-dimensional look inside the object.

This is especially important when dealing with fragile materials like:

• Porcelain and ceramic
  
  
• Wood and organic matter
  
  
• Stone and sculpture
  
  
• Mixed media artworks
  
  

By preserving the integrity of the piece, CT scanning becomes a trusted tool not only for authentication but for art conservation and long-term preservation planning as well.

To learn more about how this process works, visit our page on Industrial CT Scanning Services.

Who Benefits From CT Scanning in Fine Art?

Our work with this Amphora vase reflects a broader shift in the art world—where science and technology are playing a larger role in decision-making, evaluation, and storytelling.

Clients who benefit from this technology include:

• Collectors seeking objective insights before purchasing or selling a valuable piece
  
  
• Art conservators planning precision restorations
  
  
• Museum curators documenting and preserving historical objects
  
  
• Auction houses verifying items before listing
  
  
• Cultural institutions working to digitize and protect their collections
  
  

When combined with traditional scholarship and historical analysis, CT scanning delivers critical, measurable data that enhances credibility and confidence.

Beyond Art: Trusted Accuracy Across Industries

While CT scanning is proving invaluable in art and antiquities, its applications span industries. From aerospace to medical device manufacturing, Nel PreTech supports clients with precision inspection and quality assurance. For highly detailed objects like the Amphora vase, our scanning expertise allows us to bring the same level of precision we offer in regulated industries to the art and cultural heritage sectors.

Explore our Industries Served page to see the range of applications we support.

Seeing is Better Than Believing

As our team completes the scan of this extraordinary ceramic vase, we’ll deliver a precise, 3D dataset that offers clarity without bias. Whether it’s for authentication, conservation, or documentation, the data will empower the client to move forward with confidence—and with a clearer understanding of what may lie beneath the surface.

If you’re working with a valuable piece of art or cultural history and need high-resolution, non-invasive insights, CT scanning may be the key.

📞 Call us at (708) 429-4887 or request a free quote to learn more.