Object Reconstructions
3D modeling lends itself particularly well to ceramic reconstruction. Modeling in this way can be used to create 3D versions of illustrated reconstructions, and it also allows for fragmentary vessels to be overlaid on existing vessels. In this section, D.D.A Simpson's Vessel 50, excavated from Annathill in Lanarkshire, is reconstructed according to Simspon's original reconstruction. It is also overlain on the bases of other vessels excavated from Lanarkshire, Scotland to explore other possible reconstructed forms.
When making reconstructions or digital repairs, it is important that the person viewing the object can tell what part of the object is the original, and what has been inferred later. In illustration, this is often done with a dotted line. In modeling, the standard is often to use a material that stands out from the original. This reconstruction is of an incomplete vessel from Annathill in Scotland that was published by Derek Simpson in 1965. The reconstructions follow Simpson's original reconstruction, and experiment with different types of material to designate the reconstructed area.
A particularly fun application of 3D modeling is the ability to make reconstructions by overlaying different objects in 3D. Here, the same vessel from Annathill is overlayed on other pots published by Derek Simpson that were found in a similar area in Scotland.
Several reconstructions of Simpson's 1965 Pot 50 shown together.
Simpson's 1965 Pot 50 overlain on Pot 44 from Cathkin Moor, East Kilbride.
Simpson's 1965 Pot 50 overlain on Pot 38 from Bailieston, Glasgow.
Simpson's 1965 Pot 50 overlain on Pot 42 from Richan, Biggar.
Simpson's 1965 Pot 50 overlain on Pot 47 from Newton Cambuslang.