Scientific research in the Freer and Sackler galleries is primarily focused on the study of the physical nature of works of art from Asian cultures. Ancillary research efforts address specific questions concerning the technical and material nature of art objects in the collections and the study of questions related to the conservation of the collections. Two examples of current research projects are the study of the structure, materials, and deterioration mechanisms of East Asian paintings — a multiyear project supported by The Andrew W. Mellon Foundation — and the mineralogy, manufacture and alteration of ancient Chinese jades.

Scientific instrumentation available within the department includes that for x-radiography, routine and specialized photography, optical microscopy (including chemical microscopy and photomicrography), color measurement, x-ray diffraction, x-ray fluorescence, gas chromatography/mass spectrometry, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, ultra-violet visible spectrophotometry, scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive x-ray analysis, high performance liquid chromatography, thermal analysis, infrared and visible-light image acquisition with digital image processing and analysis, and limited electronic shop facilities. Equipment available in collaboration with other laboratories includes that for atomic absorption spectroscopy, electron microbeam analysis, inductively-coupled plasma analysis, and for other lines of work. Currently there are three permanent research staff positions, two long-term (four-year) research staff positions, and a research fellowship awarded yearly (see below).

The Forbes Program is an endowed program which endeavors to further the scientific study of the care, conservation, and protection of works of art. Based on an endowment by John S. Thacher, the program is named in memory of Edward Waldo Forbes whose pioneering work greatly advanced the technical study of works of art. The program includes the following activities:

• A fellowship for scientific research
• The presentation of symposia and occasional lectures on the technical study of works of art
• Collaborative efforts in research and conservation with other institutions whose interests are parallel to those of the Freer and Sackler Galleries

Caption for image above
Photomicrograph of a thin section of basalt used in stone architecture from the pre-Angkor site of Asram Maha Rosei in southern Cambodia. This thin section was photographed using a petrographic microscope under crossed polars, and shows olivine, feldspar and iron hydroxide minerals. A technical study of stone materials used by the early Khmer has been undertaken in collaboration with the National Museum of Cambodia.