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Raking light, the illumination of objects from a light source at an oblique angle or almost parallel to the surface, provides information on the surface topography and relief of the artefact thus lit. It is widely used in the examination of works of art.
- Examples of Raking Light
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Below are some examples of raking light, starting with a 17th century still life titled Quince, Cabbage, Melon and Cucumber by Juan Sánchez Cotán. Raking light illuminates the fruit from the left-hand side and leaves the other side in shadow. The contrast between light and shadow creates a dramatic mood and interesting shapes. Also, notice how the ...
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Raking light is a technique in which a painting is illuminated from one side only, at an oblique angle in relation to its surface. Raking light is used to reveal a painting’s surface texture. Raised paint surfaces facing the light are illuminated, while those facing away create shadows.
Raking light means a band of light running parallel to the surface, or at a very narrow angle to the surface. It is necessary that this band be condensed by lenses and be well defined in order to obtain a contrast between the illuminated areas and those remaining in shadow.
Raking light refers to a lighting technique used in visual examinations that creates a shallow angle between the light source and the surface being observed. This method enhances the visibility of surface textures, alterations, and defects by casting shadows and highlighting contours, making it a vital tool for assessing the condition of ...
JAMES RICHARDS’S seven-minute video Raking Light, 2014, begins with a slow panning shot of a glass desk. Bright sunlight reflects off the camera lens and the desktop, which appears to be embossed with a pattern of fingerprints.
Raking light with slight magnification is a simple yet highly effective method for examining the texture of parchment, helping to distinguish between the flesh side and the hair side. In parchment, the flesh side and the hair side are the two distinct surfaces created during the process of preparing animal skin for writing or artwork:…
