Digital restoration research and three-dimensional model construction on Xieqiqu

Abstract

As the Baroque style complex in Yuanmingyuan (Old Summer Palace), Xiyanglou (Western Buildings) carries a unique history of the imperial resort. The significance of its restoration has drawn much attention from home and aboard in the field of cultural heritage conservation. Yuanmingyuan Digital Restoration Research Project was officially launched in 2013. Five out of the thirteen scenes in Xiyanglou, namely Xieqiqu (Harmonious Wonder), Haiyantang (Hall of National Peace), Fangwaiguan (Belvedere), Xushuilou(Water Supply Building) and Guanshuifa (Throne to observe water displays), have been studied and restored digitally within the first two years of the project. Among all the scenes in Xiyanglou, Xieqiqu is the first European-style palace and the first scene to be studied in the Digital Restoration Research Project. The 3D reconstruction of the site is based on the current-day survey of the ruins in combination with the historic archival research. Taking Xieqiqu as a case, this paper introduces the digital restoration methodologies, progress and achievements of Yuanmingyuan Digital Restoration Research Project.