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In the present paper, we present the main results of a diagnostic investigation on different paintings by Mattia Preti, belonging to the Cycle of the New Church of Sarria, located inside the Church of the Immaculate Conception of Sarria (Floriana) in Malta. The analysis was carried out on the occasion of the restoration process and, due to the short time available, only on some representative areas of each painting. A multi-technique approach was applied in situ, employing X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy (XRF) and Raman microscopy. The aim was to achieve information on the execution technique, in a completely non-invasive way, following the requirements of the restorers., peer-reviewed

The paper presents the results of scientific investigations carried out in support of a professionally executed restoration on two paintings by Mattia Preti, located in the Church of the Immaculate Conception of Sarria in Floriana, Malta. In particular, the attention was mainly paid on a combined approach, using 2D/3D survey in order to formulate hypothetic reconstruction, and XRF spectroscopy in order to get more information on how the master prepared the various types of materials, with particular regard to the painting preparation, the pigments palette and the formulation of shades and highlights., peer-reviewed