Unexpected Elements The unexpected science behind Klimt's artwork
Nov 28, 2025
Dr. Siyakha Mguni, an archaeologist from the University of Cape Town, dives into the ancient world of rock art, sharing insights on dating techniques and conservation challenges. He discusses the fascinating origins of prehistoric cave paintings and their animal motifs. The conversation also touches on the limitations of radiocarbon dating. Alongside these ancient stories, the team explores how microbiology influences art restoration, revealing how bacteria can help preserve masterpieces like frescoes and why mosquitoes could be the future of 3D printing.
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Klimt’s Microscopy Muse
- Gustav Klimt likely drew visual inspiration from early microscopy images he saw at Viennese salons.
- Those cell-like ovals and swirls recur across works like The Kiss and The Tree of Life.
Mother–Daughter Conservation Team
- Microbiologist Pilar Bosch-Roig teamed with her conservator mother to solve sticky fresco glue removal.
- They trained Pseudomonas strains in gel to digest animal-collagen glue and cleaned frescoes within hours.
Bacteria As Precision Restorers
- Selected bacterial strains can clean marble and remove candle soot without damaging stone.
- Conservators screened many strains to find ones that eat grime but leave substrate intact.