Monumental inscriptions recovered from along the line of the Antonine Wall are an exquisite body of evidence that provide invaluable insights into the Roman frontier. Referred to as Distance Stones, these sculptures are ripe for the... more
Monumental inscriptions recovered from along the line of the Antonine Wall are an exquisite body of evidence that provide invaluable insights into the Roman frontier. Referred to as Distance Stones, these sculptures are ripe for the testing of emerging non-destructive analytical techniques that cast new, and colourful, light onto sculptural reliefs. This work presents new dimensions that enhance our engagement with them and understanding of their material, cultural and strategic significance.
Non-destructive technologies have had a transformative effect on the analysis and recreation of colours from the Classical world to the extent that ancient statuary can now be digitally and physically re-imagined in authentic polychromy. These techniques are particularly attractive for exploiting the latent research potential of museum collections since they ensure the integrity of the objects under study. Portable X-ray Fluorescence (pXRF) and Raman Spectrometry have been used to undertake in-situ analysis to identify and recreate the pigments that would have originally brought life to the Distance Stones.
Monumental inscriptions recovered from along the line of the Antonine Wall are an exquisite body of evidence that provide invaluable insights into the Roman frontier. Referred to as Distance Stones, these sculptures are ripe for the... more
Monumental inscriptions recovered from along the line of the Antonine Wall are an exquisite body of evidence that provide invaluable insights into the Roman frontier. Referred to as Distance Stones, these sculptures are ripe for the testing of emerging non-destructive analytical techniques that cast new, and colourful, light onto sculptural reliefs. This work presents new dimensions that enhance our engagement with them and understanding of their material, cultural and strategic significance. Non-destructive technologies have had a transformative effect on the analysis and recreation of colours from the Classical world to the extent that ancient statuary can now be digitally and physically re-imagined in authentic polychromy. These techniques are particularly attractive for exploiting the latent research potential of museum collections since they ensure the integrity of the objects under study. Portable X-ray Fluorescence (pXRF) and Raman Spectrometry have been used to undertake in-...
