AIC's 52nd Annual Meeting

The utilization of 3D scanning and printing technology for loss compensation has been used in conservation for some years. However, it has largely been confined to larger institutions with substantial budgets, rendering it beyond the reach of the average conservation laboratory. Recent advancements in 3D scanning technology, driven by developments in the medical and gaming sectors, have resulted in more accessible and cost-effective solutions. This has opened up new possibilities for smaller conservation labs to harness the advantages of this time-saving technique.

This paper discusses the acquisition and evaluation of consumer-level handheld 3D scanners and a smartphone application in comparison to the conventional photogrammetry technique. The objective is to investigate the feasibility of incorporating these budget-friendly options into the toolkit of a conservation lab. Key parameters considered during the testing phase encompass cost-effectiveness, ease of operation, post-processing capabilities, and the accuracy of the resultant 3D scans.

To assess the practicality of these scanners, a 19th-century gilded compo dealer's frame from the Madison County Historical Society in Oneida, New York, was selected for treatment. The frame was in a state of disrepair, exhibiting substantial losses, particularly in the form of missing decorative compo elements, including all four corners. The selected 3D scanners were employed to capture the existing corners, and subsequently, these scans were amalgamated into a single, comprehensive model. This consolidated model served as the basis for 3D printing and molding processes, enabling the creation of compo fills to restore the frame to a whole state.

This research seeks to contribute valuable insights into the applicability of consumer-level 3D scanning technology in the realm of art conservation, particularly for conservators operating within constrained budgets. By focusing on the case of the gilded compo dealer's frame, this study examines the practicality, affordability, and effectiveness of these emerging technologies in facilitating the restoration and preservation of cultural heritage artifacts. The findings will inform conservation practices and potentially expand access to 3D scanning and printing resources within the broader community of conservation labs.