Color reconstruction by photometric stereo with unknown lighting of rock art carvings found in two Sardinian Domus de Janas

A novel approach to photometric stereo imaging has successfully addressed computational challenges in reconstructing 3D color models of rock art carvings from Sardinian Domus de Janas tombs. The method introduces numerical indicators that assess dataset reliability, overcoming issues like non-Lambertian surface properties and insufficient light source distance. This advancement enables accurate digital documentation of fragile, immobile artifacts without altering their original location, preserving both cultural heritage and scientific analysis. By applying these techniques to two Sardinian sites, researchers demonstrate a robust solution for studying prehistoric engravings that were previously difficult to capture due to lighting and surface irregularities.

Crabu, E., Pes, F., Rodriguez, G., & Tanda, G. (2025). Color reconstruction by photometric stereo with unknown lighting of rock art carvings found in two Sardinian Domus de Janas. Journal of Cultural Heritage, 71, 320–327. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.culher.2024.12.019