Surveying the Sacred: Purdue researchers unlock mysteries of Eastern Orthodox icons
WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. — Purdue University Galleries, is pleased to present the final exhibition of the spring semester, “Surveying the Sacred: Analysis of the Scheuring Collection of Eastern Orthodox Icons,” showcasing groundbreaking research on Purdue’s collection of Eastern Orthodox religious icons.
“This exhibition highlights Purdue University’s strengths in combining in-depth, independent research with innovative scientific testing,” said Kirstin Gotway, curator of Purdue University Galleries' Permanent Collection. “It also demonstrates the collaborative, interdepartmental nature of so much of the work that occurs on campus. We are beyond pleased to partner with our colleagues in the Chemistry and Anthropology departments.”
In 2005, Purdue University Galleries received a gift of more than 120 religious icons from the collection of Katherine “Betsy” Scheuring (1918-2011), which led to the 2006 exhibition and catalog, “Spirit Made Tangible: The Scheuring Icon Collection”. In 2023, further analysis of the collection began with support from the Henry Luce Foundation. This research included contributions from Dr. Karen Kettering, an expert in Eastern Orthodox icons, as well as Purdue Galleries’ staff and interns Jarren Haggard, Zora Emmert, and Nhan Huynh, who conducted extensive research and wrote the gallery didactics.
Additionally, non-destructive testing was performed by Dr. Kory Cooper (Anthropology) and Dr. Nicolás Morato Gutierrez (Chemistry) with assistance from conservation scientists at the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam. Their work aims to provide deeper insight into the icons' construction methods, regional origins, and historical significance.
“The suggestion of testing the icons came from Dr. Kettering, an independent scholar who specializes in Eastern Orthodox and Russian Orthodox icons. Dr. Kettering was hired to research and assess the Scheuring collection through funding from the Henry Luce Foundation. This is groundbreaking research that will hopefully assist future scholars in studying this medium,” said Kirstin Gotway.
As part of the study, researchers utilized three advanced scientific techniques, including mass spectrometry, portable X-ray fluorescence, and Raman spectroscopy, to analyze the materials and conditions under which these religious icons were created.
“As an art historian, it was exciting to see how scientific methods can be used to better understand these beautiful works,” Gotway added.
The “Surveying the Sacred: Analysis of the Scheuring Collection of Eastern Orthodox Icons” will be on display in Ringel Gallery from March 31 to May 3. Admission to all exhibitions and events is free and open to the public.