Timna (Israel): Ancient rock engravings unveil intriguing insights into human cultures:

New ArchCUT3-D technology explores 3-D micromorphological characteristics of engravings with unprecedented precision

THE HEBREW UNIVERSITY OF JERUSALEM

Source - https://www.eurekalert.org/news-releases/994405

3-D model of engraved chariots in Timna Park.© (photo credit: Lena Dubinsky/Computational Archaeology Laboratory)

A groundbreaking study conducted by a multidisciplinary team that include a computational archaeologist, artist, and computer programmer has revealed new insights into ancient rock engravings and the techniques used by ancient engravers. The research, carried out at Site 25 in Timna Park, Southern Israel, has captivated experts and offers a fresh perspective on the production processes of these fascinating engraved rocks.

Traditionally, the study of engraved images focused on iconography, iconology, and stylistic features, overlooking the intricacies of the engraving techniques. However, this innovative research method, introduced in the study, emphasizes characterizing the techniques employed in creating rock engravings during ancient times. By considering technological variations as indicators of the engraver's production process, the team aims to enhance our understanding of these ancient artworks.

To conduct the study, 3-D scans of two ancient engravings and contemporary graffiti were obtained from Site 25 in Timna Park. These scans underwent meticulous analysis using ArchCUT3-D, specialized software developed to assess the 3-D micromorphological characteristics of the incisions forming the engravings. ArchCUT3-D enables precise and repeatable analysis by extracting 3-D slices of the incisions and examining the surface micromorphology.

The results of the research indicate that different incisions within the engravings were executed using distinct techniques. By identifying distinctive characteristics, the team successfully showcased the unique aspects of the engraving operations, such as ergonomic conditions and the consistency level of the engraving gestures.

The utilization of ArchCUT3-D software in this study represents a significant computational advancement in the field. It enables the recognition of incision techniques through micromorphology specifications and facilitates the reconstruction of engraving gestures and individual production procedures. This groundbreaking technology opens up exciting possibilities for understanding the craftsmanship and cultural significance behind ancient rock engravings.

Prof. Leore Grosman, Head of the Computational Archaeology Laboratory at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, expressed enthusiasm for the study's findings, stating, "Our research provides a fresh perspe