Removing the artifacts from artwork cross-section images

In this paper we propose a method for automatic removal of artifacts from artwork cross-section images. Cross-section images of minute samples are acquired during the painting material research of an artwork before actual conservation is performed. Such images are unfortunately damaged by the artifacts from grinding of the resin in which the sample is embedded. Removing those artifacts can improve the outcome of image segmentation and other image processing methods. The proposed algorithm can also simplify an analysis of un-derdrawings by reducing the canvas structure after infrared acquisition. Despite the idea is not entirely original, the application to cultural heritage data is novel and the implementation does not require user interaction.