Computer-aided reclamation of lost art

Abstract

There are numerous approaches towards restoration of art, including computer applications as aid to manual performance. However, to our knowledge, it has not been attempted to recuperate high quality images of missing or presumably destroyed works of art. While these works will never again be available in their original form, it may be feasible to considerably enhance the quality of preserved photographic reproductions. A pioneering combination of super-resolution and colour correction is presented here, targeting the reclamation of high quality images of lost works of art. The techniques are performed by example, utilising correspondence between artworks of similar nature, currently available both in low and high quality. With extensive prior knowledge in the domains of super-resolution and colour correction, selected approaches were studied, implemented and tested, concluding to the most efficient. Experimental results are highly promising, revealing a new research path in colour imaging for fine art. © 2012 Springer-Verlag.