In a breakthrough for digital heritage, AI and 3D modelling have resurrected a Western Han Dynasty silk robe that's more than 2,000 years old. Unearthed at Mawangdui in Changsha and housed in the Hunan Museum in the Chinese mainland, this straight-front robe once signified noble status.
The unearthed fragments were fragile1creasing, stains and missing patterns hid its original splendor. To map every detail, the museum's data center led by He Ye captured high-resolution photos, scans and 3D measurements, creating a complete digital twin.
He Ye explains that they combined texture synthesis with digital modelling tools to fill gaps and restore vibrant prints of branches, buds and flowers. The team generated two interactive 3600 models: one displaying the robe's current state, and another revealing its vivid original design.
These virtual exhibits offer young global citizens, tech enthusiasts and history buffs an immersive window into ancient craftsmanship. Next on the docket: digitally reviving more relics, making heritage accessible across cultures and continents.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
