In a groundbreaking study, researchers have successfully employed close-range photogrammetry to digitize a Roman bronze head displayed at the Santa Giulia Museum in Brescia, Italy. This innovative approach not only addresses the challenges posed by the artefact’s dark, reflective surface and hollow interior but also paves the way for significant advancements in the construction and restoration sectors.
The lead author, L. Perfetti from the Department of Civil Engineering, Architecture, Territory, Environment and Mathematics at the Università degli Studi di Brescia, emphasized the project’s dual objectives: “Our primary aim was to support restoration activities by accurately measuring the thickness of the bronze cast while also creating a web-optimized digital replica for broader dissemination.” This dual focus not only serves the museum’s needs but also showcases the potential of photogrammetry in various commercial applications.
The digitization process was particularly intricate, as the bronze head’s interior could only be accessed through an 8 cm neck opening. To overcome this, the research team designed a custom camera probe equipped with a 5-megapixel RGB global shutter camera and LED ring lights, enabling them to capture the inner geometry effectively. By combining this internal dataset with external data collected via a DSLR and a turntable setup, they generated a high-resolution mesh model, consisting of around 80 million faces.
This advancement is poised to have significant implications for the construction industry. Accurate digital replicas of historical artefacts can enhance restoration projects, ensuring that materials and techniques used are true to the original. Moreover, the optimized low-polygon version of the model created for web sharing can facilitate educational initiatives and commercial applications, such as virtual exhibitions or augmented reality experiences in construction training.
Perfetti noted the importance of low-cost tailored photogrammetric solutions, stating, “This study highlights how accessible technology can tackle the complexities of digitizing intricate museum artefacts, making it feasible for a wider range of applications.” As the construction sector increasingly embraces digital tools, this research could inspire new methodologies for preserving cultural heritage while integrating it into modern architectural practices.
Published in ‘The International Archives of the Photogrammetry, Remote Sensing and Spatial Information Sciences’ (the International Archives of Photogrammetry, Remote Sensing and Spatial Information Sciences), this study not only showcases the potential of innovative technology in the preservation of history but also signals a shift toward more sustainable and informed construction practices. For more information about L. Perfetti’s work, visit lead_author_affiliation.