The SIANE Device: Advancing Digital Documentation of Ancient Near Eastern Cylinder Seals

Description

Abstract (En)

The Seals and their Impressions in the Ancient Near East (SIANE) device is a tool developed to enhance the visual documentation and analysis of ancient cylinder seals. Born out of a collaborative effort between archaeologists and computer scientists, the SIANE device was designed to overcome the challenges posed by the intricate designs and often worn or damaged surfaces of these artefacts. The development process focused on balancing high-resolution imaging with the practicalities of processing large datasets, resulting in a versatile tool that supports both 2D and 3D imaging methods.

This poster will provide an overview of the technical development of the SIANE device, detailing iterative improvements to both its hardware and software components. The device employs advanced lighting techniques and high-precision scanning technology to capture fine details, making it ideal for recording the complex iconography found on cylinder seals. The SIANE device represents an advancement in the digital documentation of Near Eastern artefacts, offering a powerful tool for creating accessible, high-quality datasets.

We will also demonstrate how the data produced by the SIANE device can be used in conjunction with image annotation software to enhance research possibilities, offering new ways to engage with and analyse these ancient artefacts. This example highlights the broader applications of the datasets produced by the SIANE device, showcasing their potential across various fields of digital scholarship.