Hydrogel saves precious artwork to reveal hidden ‘Michelangelo’ message

By Jamie Durrani2018-05-22T14:45:00

Sixteenth century drawing from Ascesa dei Beati, a scene of the

Source: © National Academy of Science

New non-invasive technique safely removes sticky tape without damaging works of art

A hidden inscription on a 16th century drawing suggests that it may have been penned by Renaissance genius Michelangelo. The message was concealed by a piece of sticky tape that was removed using a new technique that gently dissolves the tape’s glue without damaging the surface beneath it.

Adhesive tapes are among the most commonly-used quick fixes for damaged items. As well as adorning the tattered corners of Nirvana and Chat Noir posters in countless student halls, tape has found its way onto the Dead Sea scrolls and paintings by world-renowned artists.