In situ virtual restoration of artifacts by imaging technology

Abstract The restoration of incomplete artifacts is important for presenting the value of artifacts. Even though the existing methods provide rich solutions for the restoration of artifacts, they may not be the ultimate and perfect methods. The innovation of restoration methods may provide better restoration effects in some aspects or bring people a different visiting experience, which motivates people to explore new restoration methods. In this paper, based on virtual imaging technology, a virtual imaging restoration method for incomplete artifacts were proposed. In order to examine the effects and potential of the virtual imaging restoration, a bronze mirror and a mural were restored through our newly invented virtual imaging restoration device. The effects of the restorations were evaluated through the illumination test and the questionnaire surveys. The results proved that the virtual imaging restoration can visually achieve in situ restoration, and it is completely reversible. Virtual imaging restoration also performed well in terms of visiting experience, authenticity, discernibility, and economy. Limitations of this restoration method are related to the scope of application, the viewing angle, and the imaging effects. Overall, virtual imaging restoration is worth recommending and the potential of this method and its encouraging results may provide a choice or pretest tool for the restoration of some incomplete artifacts in the near future.