The primary purpose of painting authentication is to determine whether a painting is genuine and to establish its provenance, or history of ownership.

Radiocarbon dating is not commonly used in painting authentication, as it is primarily used to determine the age of organic materials, such as wood or canvas, rather than the age of the paint itself.

Stylistic analysis involves comparing the painting's style, technique, and subject matter to other known works by the same artist.

Dendrochronology is a technique used to study the growth rings of trees, and is not commonly used in painting authentication.

Provenance research involves tracing the history of ownership of a painting, from its creation to the present day.

Examination of the painting's condition and preservation is not typically considered a type of art historical research.

Technical analysis often involves the use of scientific methods to determine the age of a painting, such as radiocarbon dating or thermoluminescence analysis.

Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry is not commonly used in painting authentication.

Technical analysis often involves the use of scientific methods to examine a painting's surface, such as X-ray analysis or infrared reflectography.

Varnishing is not typically considered an alteration, as it is a common practice used to protect the surface of a painting.

Art historical research often involves comparing a painting to other works from the same period and region to establish its context and significance.

Examination of the painting's condition and preservation is not typically considered a type of art historical research.

Art historical research often involves studying the artist's life and career to gain insights into their artistic development and style.

Examination of the painting's condition and preservation is not typically considered a type of art historical research.

Authentication of a painting typically involves a combination of stylistic analysis, technical analysis, provenance research, and art historical research.