The Department of History, Easwari School of Liberal Arts, hosted Prof. Satish C. Pandey, Dean of Academic Affairs, Professor & Head—Department of Art Conservation, Indian Institute of Heritage, Ministry of Culture, Government of India, and Vice Chair—Directory Board, International Council of Museums—Conservation Committee (ICOM-CC), ICOM, Paris, France, for an insightful lecture on tracing technologies in art and archaeology on April 03, 2025.

In his session, Prof. Pandey shared his expertise in art conservation and archaeological science, offering valuable insights into the study of provenance and technology. He discussed the Site of Kunal from the Harappan Period and the intricate analysis of ancient pottery. His research highlighted the natural techniques used in pottery-making, where shape, colour, and firing methods were influenced by organic materials. Elements such as manganese (black), iron (red), and lime (pure white) were used to create distinct hues, while the lightweight nature of the pots was a result of their composition.

In addition to pottery, Prof. Pandey delved into the conservation of historical paintings. His research has uncovered instances of forgery and modification in artworks intended for public display. By utilising infrared analysis, he demonstrated how changes in oil paints, cracking patterns, and colour modifications over time help researchers restore and authenticate original paintings.

His visit provided an enriching experience, deepening our understanding of conservation science and its role in preserving cultural heritage.

The New Indian Express

The Economic Times

The Economic Times