Infrared approach in art studies reveals new details

A novel technique has revealed never-before-seen details of Renaissance artworks in Italy.

The method images the faint reflections of low-power infrared light - the invisible light waves typically associated with heat.

However, in contrast to existing infrared imaging, the technique deposits little heat in precious works.

The approach, called Thermal Quasi-Reflectography or TQR, is described in Optics Express.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/science-environment-18502413