Restoration and Digitisation of the Tarxien Stone Bowl: A Multidisciplinary Approach
摘要
This paper presents an interdisciplinary effort involving the curatorial, conservation, and digitisation departments of Heritage Malta, focusing on the restoration and digitisation of a large stone bowl discovered in 1915 at the Tarxien Prehistoric Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Unearthed during excavations led by Temi Zammit, the stone bowl had been misassembled following its discovery, resulting in an inaccurate shape and structural vulnerability. By 2023, the bowl's degraded state necessitated a collaborative conservation project. The curatorial team provided essential historical context and insights into the bowl's significance within the broader scope of Maltese prehistoric culture. In parallel, the conservation department oversaw the physical restoration, which required meticulous documentation and a sensitive approach to maintain the bowl's cultural integrity. The digitisation unit utilised advanced photogrammetry and 3D scanning techniques to virtually reconstruct the bowl and determine whether it could be returned to its original location in the prehistoric site. This paper explores the historical importance of the Tarxien Prehistoric Complex, the curatorial perspectives on the artefact's significance, and the challenges encountered during the conservation process. The digitisation team's contribution is highlighted, showcasing how cutting-edge 3D technology can complement traditional conservation efforts to ensure the preservation and accurate representation of cultural heritage. Through this multi-disciplinary collaboration, the stone bowl was successfully restored and relocated to its original position, preserving its historical authenticity while demonstrating the future potential of integrated heritage preservation methodologies.