The laser microprobe has many features which would seem to make it an ideal tool for analysis of art objects. These include high spatial resolution, extremely small sample requirements, a wide variety of possible elements for analysis over a large dynamic range of concentrations and capability of sampling a variety of sizes and shapes. Problems of surface damage, spectral insensitivity, and poor accuracy and precision had limited the applicability of this technique in the past. Following a systematic study of these limitations, improved performance has been achieved. In addition, a mathematical model of the sampling process has been developed in an effort towards generating elemental depth profiles
