Using technology to preserve and restore ancient art collections
As we move forward in our world, we are constantly trying to preserve history for future generations. Before now, technology was not a widely accepted way to preserve anything. However, as things continue to advance, more museums around the world turn to 3D laser scanning devices to restore ancient objects and artifacts.
One of the three almost completed renaissance pieces to make it in the Mdina Cathedral Museum has used 3D laser scanning devices to help restore it. This collection is from the 1490s, and most others are just fragments. The piece that was almost complete that needed help being restored is called The Triptych of the Madonna del Soccorso.
“The paintings are important because they all reached Malta before the arrival of the Knights of the Order of St John, indicating the sophisticated type of artistic patronage on the island pre-1530 that we often fail to acknowledge.” Explains Charlene Vella, who is a lecturer at the University of Malta.
3D laser scanning is perfect for preserving our history
As researchers see the developments in 3D laser scanning more will adopt the technology. There are so many benefits to using this technology to preserve historical objects, and the more museums adopt it, the more it will spread to other museums.
- Budget-Friendly – This is some of the most accessible technology on the market. There are so many companies coming out with new versions and creating competitive prices. A museum can easily find the most affordable version that does everything they need it to.
- Not Harmful – 3D laser scanning in no way harms the objects. It uses a camera as well as a laser beam that projects over an object. Researchers can skip the molds and touching them with this technology. This makes it a useful tool because it will ensure that the original copy stays in decent shape. They can then use replicas to touch.
- Stores Data – Once the information is collected, it is stored forever in the cloud. It can never be deleted and can be used as a future reference. It can be sent across the world, and anyone with access can access the information. This means if a museum in a different country wants to access, they can ask and get it. Then they can have an exact replica.
- Models – Instead of using the original model, a museum can make an exact replica or model. This helps preserve the original copy and can help keep it nice. The model will be exactly as the original is with every same microscopic detail as the other piece.
The benefits of 3D laser scanning can change the way guests interact with the museum’s artifacts. Eventually, guests will be allowed to touch the objects, pick them up, and truly get to know them. This will help teach our future generations and shape the way we learn in museums. 3D laser scanning has entered our world and is helping to preserve and restore our history. Our future generations will be able to see everything in full detail, and we will continue to protect essential artifacts.
