Project ARIA team members returned to the Ducal Palace of Vila Viçosa, Alentejo, Portugal, on June 13^th, for a closer look at the cartouches in the first Music Room. The aim was to identify the existing staves, using infrared reflectography, a non-invasive method for scientific examination of painted artworks.

Researchers Susana Varela Flor and Pedro Flor (IHA – NOVA FCSH / IN2PAST) – the project’s art historians –, and conservator-restorer/ researcher Milene Gil (HERCULES Laboratory – University of Évora / IN2PAST) were joined by chemist Sara Valadas, also from HERCULES / IN2PAST.

ARIA: Art, Rhythm, Intonaco, Analytics – An Interdisciplinary Study of King João IV’s Musical Library at Vila Viçosa is a one-year exploratory project approved by IN2PAST in 2024. A primary site for the field work is the Ducal Palace of Vila Viçosa, namely the two Music Rooms known as the Music Library.