Introducing High-Fidelity 3D Archeological Photogrammetry Models

We are excited to announce the launch of an innovative new feature on our website - a collection of highly realistic 3D models Iron Age Cypriot pottery, created using state-of-the-art photogrammetry techniques. These models allow you to virtually handle ancient objects and explore historic locations in incredible detail from any device, opening up new possibilities for research, education, and public engagement with Cyprus' rich cultural heritage.

These 3D models can be found on our 3D Models page, or by looking for the new 3D symbol next to artifacts in our catalogue. We also introduce a new button, the "3D Models Only" button which will filter all artifacts in our catalogue that have 3D models: 3D Models Only.

What is Photogrammetry

Photogrammetry is a cutting-edge technique that enables the creation of precise 3D digital models from a series of 2D photographs taken from multiple angles. Specialized software analyzes the photographs to identify common points and uses this information to calculate the shape, size, and texture of the original object or scene.

The resulting 3D models are geometrically accurate and photorealistic, capturing an extraordinary level of detail. Photogrammetry has revolutionized fields like topography, engineering, and cultural heritage preservation by providing a fast, flexible way to record and reproduce complex real-world subjects in the digital realm.

Our Methodology

Figure 1. Photogrammetry Setup showing photography of a small Oinochoe.

To create our 3D models, we have developed a state-of-the-art photogrammetry workflow optimized for capturing the intricate details of ceramic artifacts. At the heart of our setup is a Sony A7cII mirrorless camera, chosen for its combination of high resolution (33 megapixels, 7008 x 4672 pixels) and flexibility. We pair this with a Sony 35mm F1.8 lens, which allows us to work with artifacts of various sizes at distances ranging from 25cm to 75cm.

Depending on the size of the object and the working distance, our setup can achieve resolutions between 9 and 27 pixels per millimeter. For small artifacts with intricate surface features, we use the closest focus distance of 25cm, yielding an impressive resolution of 27 pixels/mm. Larger objects are captured from further away, up to 75cm, maintaining a robust resolution of 9 pixels/mm.

Lighting is a critical factor in photogrammetry, as it can dramatically impact the visibility of surface details. We illuminate our subjects using a high-power 400W flash equipped with a custom polarizing filter. The camera lens is also fitted with a cross-polarizing filter, which eliminates specular highlights and enhances the legibility of the ceramic surfaces. This setup ensures that even challenging materials can be captured with optimal clarity and contrast.

To document each artifact completely, we capture between 100 and 350 images from different angles, depending on the item's size and geometric complexity. The artifact is placed on a motorized turntable that rotates incrementally between each shot, guaranteeing consistent coverage and spacing. After capture, the images are post-processed in Adobe Lightroom to fine-tune the exposure, minimize blown-out highlights, and recover shadow detail, priming them for photogrammetric reconstruction.

The optimized image set is then imported into Reality Capture, a powerful photogrammetry program that aligns the photos and generates a detailed 3D model of the artifact. This software uses advanced algorithms to identify common points across the image set and calculate the object's form with remarkable precision.

Figure 2. Reality Capture view showing camera locations around the reconstructed 3D model.

We are constantly refining our photogrammetry pipeline to push the boundaries of resolution and fidelity. Potential future upgrades include transitioning to an even higher-resolution camera like the Sony A7rV (60.2 megapixels, 9504 x 6336 pixels), which could increase our maximum resolution to 37 pixels/mm at a 25cm working distance. Specialized optics like the Sony 90mm F2.8 macro lens could also significantly boost our resolving power, potentially reaching 62 pixels/mm with the A7cII or an astonishing 85 pixels/mm with the A7rV.

Throughout the capture process, we take care to record each artifact from a wide range of viewpoints, ensuring complete coverage. The turntable-based workflow produces a distinctive pattern of concentric image "orbits" around the subject, with regular angular spacing between each shot. This systematic approach can be visualized as a cluster of pyramids, each representing a single camera position and orientation relative to the artifact.

By combining high-resolution hardware, controlled lighting, and refined software techniques, our photogrammetry setup is able to produce strikingly detailed, scientifically accurate 3D models that invite a new level of engagement with these fascinating ceramic artifacts. As we continue to refine our methods, we look forward to bringing you face-to-face with the material heritage of ancient Cyprus in ever-more immersive and revealing ways.

Note we will discuss our custom serving of these models over the web in a separate article.

Explore the Models

The start of this project was the generation of 14 models from our collection. These include the majority of the collection barring sherds and a few other items.

The models vary in quality, with some being exceptional such as our larger Oinochoe with others being of lower quality. We will replace the lower quality models over time.

When you navigate to one of the models you will be greeted by our new 3D viewer. This viewer allows you to rotate and zoom, we have for now disabled panning.

Figure 3. Screenshot of the ancientcyprus.com 3D model viewer.

On the top right you will see a menu with several settings. This can be collapsed down and up by clicking on the chevron.

The the first setting is a slider that controls the ambient light. We chose to start with a minimal lighting setup, while this may look nice it can obscure some details, therefore we allow you to increase the ambient light to your liking.

The second setting is the ability to toggle the display of the model's texture. When viewing artifacts it can be difficult to see the surface topology which is often obscured by the colors and patterns. By toggling the texture off you can see the surface topology more clearly.

The third setting is a button which will display some minimal information about the artefact you are viewing.

The final setting is an interesting one as it relates to what we call info points.

Info Points

Info points, when available, appear as small info circles in 3D space around the model.

These info points, when clicked, will display a small amount of information about the artifact you are viewing.

We believe that these types of interactive explorations of 3D models can be a powerful tool for learning and engagement, and we are excited to see how they will be used by researchers, students, and the general public.

Info Points are limited to a single model for now and only a few have been made. More will be added over time.

Applications for Archeology

For researchers, these highly accurate 3D records serve as an essential complement to traditional forms of documentation like photographs, drawings, and measurements. They enable detailed remote examination and comparison of artifacts without the limitations of 2D representation or the need for direct physical access. This opens new avenues for large-scale quantitative and morphometric analyses that can shed light on manufacturing techniques, artistic traditions, trade networks, and other aspects of past societies.

The models also have significant implications for the long-term preservation and stewardship of cultural heritage. By creating precise digital replicas of fragile artifacts and archaeological remains, photogrammetry provides an insurance policy against loss, damage, or deterioration of the physical originals. The 3D files can be used to monitor conservation issues, support restoration efforts, or even produce tangible copies via 3D printing for research, exhibition, or repatriation purposes.

For students and the general public, interacting with photogrammetric models fosters a more immediate, intuitive understanding of archaeological materials than static images or text descriptions alone. The ability to manipulate objects and navigate sites in virtual space invites active, multi-sensory engagement with the past and encourages individual exploration and discovery. As immersive media becomes increasingly central to digital learning, art appreciation, and tourism, platforms like ours will be key venues for people to experience cultural heritage in impactful new ways.

Looking to the Future

As we celebrate this milestone in the development of our website and projects, we are already looking ahead to future applications and expansions of the photogrammetry project.

Refining our Photogrammetry Pipeline

Our photogrammetry pipeline is still in its early stages, we have several plans to improve not only quality but color accuracy.

Course on Archeological Photogrammetry

We found that photogrammetry courses were relatively limited in scope and often did not cover the specific needs of archeologists. We are planning to create a course that will cover the entire process from start to finish, with a focus on ceramics.

Expanding our 3D Model Collection

The start of our photogrammetry adventure has been focused on our own collection. As our collection grows we hope to keep adding models to our website. Furthermore we are looking to expand to other collections.

Leveraging 3D Models in Creative Ways

Our current use of 3D models is rather prototypical, using them in isolated manners to allow users to orbit and zoom. We are looking to expand this to allow users to interact with the models in more creative ways.

We are also looking at using these 3D models to generate virtual scenes, videos and more.

Conclusion

The launch of our photogrammetry-based 3D model collection marks an exciting new chapter in the digital preservation and dissemination of Cyprus' archaeological heritage. By harnessing cutting-edge imaging technology and developing a rigorous capture methodology, we have created highly detailed, scientifically accurate virtual replicas of key artifacts that offer unprecedented access and interaction.

This is just the beginning of an exciting journey. We invite you to dive into our virtual museum, get hands-on with the past, and join us in unlocking new insights and experiences from the rich archaeological record of Cyprus.