One of our most important research topics is the development of a computer-assisted system for creating epigraphic drawings.

But why would we want to do that?

Epigraphy, the study of inscriptions, demands accurate, detailed drawings that can be correlated against the original sources.  While there are many excellent approaches in use to generate epigraphic drawings by hand, the process is a slow and laborious one.

Therefore, we are now building software that will help researchers create drawings more quickly, and with higher accuracy.  See below for an example of our traditional approach (wall relief in the tomb of Ramsses II), and notes on our software approach.

A section of wall relief from KV7.

The epigraphic drawing seen below was created by Dr. Philippe Martinez as part of our 2002 expedition to Thebes.  Dr. Martinez first traced the wall reliefs directly, using large sheets of acetate and fine-point fiber pens.  Next, these images were registered, corrected against photographs, and digitized (shown below, at left).
 

The basis for our computer-assisted epigraphy is an underlying 3D model.  While Dr. Martinez worked on his traditional epigraphic drawings (above), our team also completed las
 

The basis for our computer-assisted epigraphy is an underlying 3D model.  While Dr. Martinez worked on his traditional epigraphic drawings (above), our team also completed laser scans of the same area in the tomb, shown below as a computer rendering.

We are currently working with Geometry Systems Inc., INSIGHT to build end-user software that filters this type of 3D data into a 2D line drawing similar to the ones shown above.  As our progress continues in 2003, we will continue to post updates to this page, so please check back as we continue to work.
 

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