Do conservators have a future in The Matrix?

[Dennis Piechota]

I just asked a 3D scanning specialist if I could access the XYZ database of points or nodes used (along with mapped imaging) to create a photo-realistic 3D emulation of an Egyptian coffin. I wanted to compare my measurements of it with the hard data collected by the scanner. He said, "Measure the object." By that he meant measure the 3D emulation of the coffin. To him emulation is the data; it is the reality.

The photo app on my iPhone says my film speed is ISO 40. Another emulation of a past reality when Panatomic-X film was used to take pictures.

I think we are already in The Matrix and I'm wondering for how long will conservators be needed here.

Dennis

Dennis Piechota

Archaeological Conservator

Fiske Center for Archaeological Research
UMass Boston
Office: 617-287-6829

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