Surface Metrology Offers New Tool for Authenticating Van Gogh Paintings

A groundbreaking study conducted by researchers at the University Polytechnique Hauts-de-France has shed light on the use of surface metrology for art authentication. This extensive research examined the surfaces of eight paintings by Vincent van Gogh, confirming the authenticity of Sunset at Montmajour (1888), which was validated by the Van Gogh Museum in 2013, while identifying The Plowmen as a forgery. Published in Surface Topography: Metrology and Properties, the study transformed high-resolution images into topographical maps and utilized fractal dimension values to assess complexity, with Starry Night (1889) exhibiting the highest fractal value. Lead researcher Francois Berksman emphasized that this technique, typically applied in industrial settings, presents a cost-effective and non-invasive method for art authentication, which could help differentiate between human and AI-generated artworks.