Application of 3D Scanning for Documentation and Creation of Physical Copies of Estampages

Abstract

This article discusses the creation of a 3D archive and physical copies of paper reliefs (estamages). A matrix of the estampage is fabricated by the combined use of 3D scanning technology and additive technologies which can then be used for the documentation and conservation of the original estampage. In order to digitize the relief, an optical 3D scanner based on structured light was used and the processing of the 3D model is discussed in detail. Scanning data is uploaded into the microprocessor of a 3D laser printer using stereolithography technology which then creates a conservation matrix. The accuracy of relief reproduction is assessed by comparing its 3D model with 3D models of replicas obtained with the help of 3D printers. The experimental research showed that it is possible to create 3D archives and reproduction of reliefs. This approach is fundamentally new in the practice of museums and archives.