3D technology is becoming much easier to get hold and use, thanks to clever apps such as 123D Catch. Recently I’ve been messing about with three different free software packages that allow the creation of 3D models. Obviously, this technology is important for the recording of certain types of artefacts which require users to view the object from many different angles.

Here is an example of a model I made for a medieval gilt copper-alloy mount in the form of a bull, representing St Luke. The mount would probably have been attached to a processional cross.

To make this model, I first of all took about 35 photos on my iPhone 6, using the app 123D Catch. I then exported the model to MeshLab, where I then attempted to edit the background. I then uploaded it to SketchFab, where I made some final edits.

The model is fairly low resolution, and is a bit rough around the edges, but for a first attempt the results are pretty good. It certainly gives the viewer more information than 2D photographs could. The inscription LVKA is fairly well visible on the bottom ledge when viewed from above. You can see the 3D model embedded on the PAS record.

I’m going to trial this further with other objects, but as the saying goes, practice makes perfect.

It’s good to see PAS at the forefront of digital technologies though.