Deciphering A Violin Label Using Infrared Photography

Here we have what is believed to be a violin of English origins. Although quite dirty, faded, and previously intervened with, we would still be able to mostly decipher the existing label using infrared photography.

The first step of the process is to inspect the label with our wonderful AmScope.

This particular microscope when used with a high definition monitor is very helpful for cleaning. We use a soft bristle brush to gently remove what we can of the dirt and debris.

Nicholo begins to emerge..

This tracks with what many English makers were doing in the 19th century.

“ronym”… Hieronymus?

The instrument is placed with a 940nm infrared light source mounted directly behind the label.

The infrared light emitted can only be seen using an infrared converted or full spectrum camera.

The shooting will take place in complete darkness.

We were able to obtain the best captures by focusing both the intensity of light and camera focus on 3 different sections of the label.

With the camera and violin remaining stationary, only the light was moved for each capture.

The 3 images were processed in Photoshop.

The advantage in shooting RAW is the post-processing.

Convert to B&W, boost contrast, and adjust other levels as necessary.

The 3 images combined as layers.

After some final adjustments, this was the resulting photograph-

We can now clearly see-

Nichola Amatus …..a Hieronymus FIL .nton.. Nepos 1676

Consistent with many English tributary labels of the time.

We have now done our due diligence to ensure that the label is not a clue of greater importance.