Getty Science Up Close - Monica Ganio

Did you know X-rays can help us better understand history?
Monica Ganio, archaeological scientist at the Getty Conservation Institute, uses an X-ray fluorescence tool to reveal elements that make up art objects at the Getty Museum. Through her research, we can better understand the provenance of materials, how objects were made, and even learn what the trade networks were like between different cultural groups from hundreds of years ago.
“It’s shocking and surprising when you discover that something that you think of as a new thing was already used centuries ago, and it was totally possible without the technology we have today,” said Ganio.
Learn more about Monica’s work and the work of other Getty scientists in our Getty Science Up Close video series:
• Getty Science Up Close