Burgundian Cabinet: The Tack
An exhibition video reveals the science behind the authentication of a J. Paul Getty cabinet believed to have been a fake.
This case study of the research into the authenticity of the cabinet presents the results of scientific and visual analyses of the object, studies of related materials, archival research, and other evidence. The video—comprised of original footage, as well as 2-D and 3-D visualizations and motion graphics elements—follows Getty researchers through the processes of X-ray fluorescence, optical microscopy, and scanning electron microscopy to reveal the composition of a small tack that was characteristic of manufacturing methods of the period.
Press & Awards
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American Association of Museums Muse Awards, Bronze, Science, 2006
“This kiosk presents an in-depth exploration of a single object. It consists of labels and videos displayed on small screens near a large cabinet. The content carefully explains dating techniques used for furniture and how they were applied to this particular piece. The judges were impressed with how this exhibit successfully explained part of the museum process, giving visitors an understanding of how museums work. The exhibit is installed around the cabinet itself, allowing visitors to directly observe many small details about its age. The visual design of the content was simple, and the length and pacing of each video allowed visitors to quickly grasp concepts.”
Credits
- Motion Designer
- Martin Linde
- A/V Editing & Production
- Alphonse Swinehart
- 3-D Visualization
- Matt Arnold
- Developer
- Thomas Wester
- Director of Photography
- Harry Dawson