Studies were conducted in the fossil forest (comprising Taxodioxylon gypsaceum, which became extinct during the Pliocene, and had anatomical features similar to Sequoia sempervirens). The forest originated during a period when climatic conditions were warmer and more oceanic than at present.

A review of the history of dendrochronology and the construction of chronologies, and the applications of dendrochronology to historical and archaeological studies, art history, the study of musical instruments, dendroclimatology, forensic science and radiocarbon dating.

The author gives a short overview of the uses of dendrochronology, citing some research examples in Italy, and describing how local dendrochronological data (wood growth ring widths) can be incorporated into larger regional curves.

A brief account of the use of dendrochronology in forensic science and criminology, to identify the age or correct provenance of timber, or to illustrate anthropomorphic or pollution effects.

A brief outline of the use of dendrological or dendrochronological research in the study of works of art, or wooden artefacts, such as sarcofagi, painted panels, picture frames, church altars, etc.

[See FA 43, 6123, 6125; FPA 5, 2477] The bases of dendrochronology are described, followed by the presentation of studies on various string instruments held in Italian museums, some of which have already been noticed in FA and FPA.