Digital Reconstruction and Material Analysis

Project ARCANA (Advanced Recovery of Cultural Artefacts through Non-invasive Analysis) is an interdisciplinary laboratory specialising in the recovery of damaged or illegible texts. Headed by Dr. Alexander J. Zawacki, ARCANA works to digitally restore and preserve manuscripts, palimpsests, printed books, and other cultural heritage objects using technologies such as multispectral imaging (MSI), infrared reflectography (IRR), and reflectance transformation imaging (RTI). In addition, the project works to study the material composition of such objects through the application of MSI and fiber optics reflectance spectroscopy (FORS), which can reveal the chemical composition of inks, pigments, and other components.

Multispectral Imaging (MSI)

MSI is a non-invasive, non-destructive photographic method that provides a comprehensive set of spectral data on the object under examination. It involves taking a series of reflected-light images at various, precisely defined wavelengths – ranging from the ultraviolet through the visible to the near-infrared spectrum. In addition, a transmitted light source (visible and infrared light) can be projected through the object from below. In this way, it is even possible to reconstruct texts that have been completely scraped off one side. 

In combination with computer-assisted statistical analysis methods, MSI enables the restoration of illegible, damaged or overwritten texts and produces high-resolution images of this previously lost information.

Reflectance Transformation Imaging (RTI)

Reflectance Transformation Imaging (RTI) enables high-resolution capture of an object’s surface topography. The object is positioned beneath a stationary camera and photographed multiple times from different angles of illumination. The image data obtained in this way is then digitally assembled into an interactive pseudo-3D model. 

Unlike conventional digitisation methods, which usually employ uniform lighting and thus tend to ‘smooth’ the surface structure, the multi-perspective illumination used in RTI clearly highlights fine details such as brushstrokes, embossing, creases or even hair follicles. This method is particularly useful for restoring faint imprints on paper or parchment.

Digital Microscope

Our digital microscope delivers high-resolution images that assist in identifying types of parchment, examining palaeographic features and conducting damage analyses in very small areas. Furthermore, three-dimensional topographic maps of selected areas under examination, as well as multifocal images for documenting features at different depth levels, can be created.

We collaborate with researchers who use these technologies to study historical materials and participate in research projects at the University of Göttingen and beyond. We promote the exchange of expertise and the development of methods in digital reconstruction and material analysis, cooperating with cultural institutions on both national and international levels. If you have ideas or are interested in joint projects, please feel free to contact us.

Upon request, we provide information on the use of new technologies such as MSI and RTI for the analysis of cultural heritage within the context of courses. Students wishing to gain skills in these innovative analytical methods can take courses and training with Alexander Zawacki at the Institute for Digital Humanities. Dr Zawacki also teaches these methods as part of the Spring School and Summer School in Digital Palaeography.

Please note

Please note that our services depend on your research question, the condition of the materials, and the availability of equipment. Priority is given to members of the University of Göttingen. Requests from external researchers and students are considered based on capacity. 

Please allow sufficient lead time: Two to four weeks in advance for equipment use, and at least four weeks for arranging courses.