3D Modeling and Photogrammetry
Making Artifacts Accessible
As technology advances it allows for amazing things to occur. One of those things is the ability to create 3D models of artifacts. With these 3D models, archaeologists have more access to artifacts and the ability to share them with others.
Here are a few examples of the artifacts that we’ve 3D mapped at PanGIS:
Roman Ceramic Oil Lamp by Alberto B. Foglia
PanGIS Senior Archaeologist and Geospatial Data Specialist, Alberto Bello Foglia, MA RPA, created this 3D model of this faithful replica of a Roman ceramic oil lamp.
Lamps like these were used in the Mediterranean for thousands of years, well into the middle ages, for both indoor and outdoor illumination. Some versions had a handle for easy transportation. During the Roman period, these lamps were fueled mainly by olive oil. They were created using a two-part mold which the clay was pressed into and were often ornately decorated.
3D Model of U.S. Coast and Geodetic Survey Benchmark by Alberto B. Foglia
Survey benchmark – copper alloy plaque set into a concrete pedestal. This benchmark was set up in 1935 by the U.S. Coast & Geodetic Survey, now known as the U.S. National Geodetic Survey.
Interestingly while this plaque has space where the surveyors could have inscribed the elevation above median sea level (AMSL), it was left blank. It is part of the National Spatial Reference System (NSRS). For the last 200 years, surveyors have been creating such marks in the United States. Today there are over 1.5 million, which allows surveyors to ensure that their positional coordinates are compatible with what other surveyors are collecting.
Interesting historical tidbit: From 1934-37 during the height of the Great Depression, Coast and Geodetic Survey organized surveying parties and field offices employed over 10,000 including many out-of-work engineers.
Replica Agate Arrowhead by Alberto B. Foglia
Alberto B Foglia created a beautiful 3D photogrammetric model of an agate arrowhead. The arrowhead is a replica item, sold by the Littleton Coin Company.
Dimensions: 4.1 cm (L) x 2.6 cm (W) x 0.6 cm (T)
