3D Scanning and metadata registration of archaeological artifacts at Lund University Library and Lund University Historical Museum

Funded by: Ludvig annd Edith Bauers Fond

This project is dedicated to the digital preservation of a selection of archaeological artifacts housed at Lund University. These include a rare group of ostraka—inscribed pottery fragments from Roman Egypt, dated to the 1st–5th centuries AD—held in the Ostraca Lundensia collection at Lund University Library, as well as a broader assemblage of ancient objects on loan from the Lund University Historical Museum (LUHM). The latter includes items such as kylikes, lekythoi, lamps, figurines, and vessels representing the Mycenaean, Archaic, Classical, Hellenistic, and Roman periods.

Based at the Department of Archaeology and Ancient History, the project responds to the need for non-invasive, digital access to fragile artifacts that are difficult to handle repeatedly. Utilizing a Spider scanner, provided by the department’s Digital Archaeology Laboratory (DARKLab), the team produces high-resolution 3D models that capture intricate details—such as inscriptions, surface wear, and material textures—with exceptional precision.

Following scanning, the digital models are refined through post-processing and uploaded to the department’s Dynamic Collections platform. This publicly accessible repository enables users to remotely interact with the artifacts, zooming in on fine details and rotating them for in-depth exploration.

In tandem, the project carries out a thorough metadata assessment, integrating and refining existing information from platforms such as Alvin and papyri.info. This ensures each model is enriched with consistent and reliable contextual data, including provenance, typology, function, and inscription content.

By bringing together digital innovation, scholarly expertise, and institutional collaboration, this project makes a significant contribution to archaeological research, interdisciplinary teaching, and public engagement. The digitized collection will serve as a lasting resource, ensuring broader access and preservation of these important materials for future generations.

This project applies high-resolution 3D scanning to digitally preserve archaeological artifacts housed at Lund University Library and the Historical Museum. The collection includes inscribed ostraka from Roman Egypt and a range of ancient objects dating from the Mycenaean to Roman periods. Using a state-of-the-art Spider scanner, the project captures detailed 3D models of these fragile items, allowing researchers and the public to explore them virtually. The models, along with updated metadata, are made accessible through the Dynamic Collections platform at Lund University, supporting research, education, and public engagement with ancient material culture.