Comparative Analysis of 3D Scanning and Restoration of the ‘Yinquan’ Inscription at Xiling Seal Art Society

The Historical and Cultural Value of the Xiling Seal Art Society

Since its establishment in the 30th year of Emperor Guangxu of the Qing Dynasty, the Xiling Seal Art Society has been a pivotal hub for the study of seal cutting and metal and stone inscriptions, earning the reputation of being the “Premier Society Under Heaven”. Located on the western slope of Solitary Hill in the West Lake scenic area of Hangzhou, it is not only a national key cultural relic but also a cultural landscape imbued with profound historical significance.

Within the society, every cliff carving serves as a witness to history. Among them, the inscription of the characters “Yinquan” is particularly noteworthy for its ancient and robust style, which embodies the essence of Han Dynasty stone steles, and is one of the art treasures of the society. As the foremost of the “Four Springs of Xiling”, Yinquan is steeped in a rich history.

Embarking on Digital Preservation

As time progresses, digital preservation has emerged as a novel approach to the continuity of cultural heritage. In order to better protect and study this precious inscription, the School of Art and Archaeology at Zhejiang University, in collaboration with ScanTech, has utilized 3D scanning technology to digitally capture Yinquan.

The Practice of Digital Preservation: A Comparative Analysis of the Restoration of the Yinquan Inscription at Xiling Seal Art Society

First 3D Scan: Documenting the Current State and Challenges

On July 22, 2021, ScanTech conducted the first 3D scan of the Yinquan inscription using the KSCAN-Magic laser 3D scanner. The objective of this scan was to meticulously document the actual condition of the inscription prior to restoration. The high-resolution 3D images revealed the effects of prolonged natural erosion and weathering, including wear and tear, resulting in blurred characters, indistinct lines, and loss of detail in certain parts.

Second 3D Scan: Witnessing Restoration and Renewal

Following meticulous restoration efforts, ScanTech conducted a second 3D scan of the Yinquan inscription on March 23, 2022, utilizing the KSCAN-Magic 3D scanner. The objective of this second scan was to assess the restoration results and to compare them against the initial scan data.

Observation and analysis of restoration results

By comparing the data from the two 3D scans, we can clearly observe the restoration effects on the Yinquan inscription. Prior to restoration, the inscription had suffered from wear due to prolonged weathering and erosion, resulting in faded characters and indistinct lines. After careful restoration, the characters on the inscription are now more full-bodied, the lines smoother, and the original ancient charm has been effectively restored.

The Significance and Prospects of Digital Preservation

This digital preservation effort not only showcases the vital role of 3D scanning technology in the restoration of cultural relics but also provides a novel approach to safeguarding the historical and cultural heritage of the Xiling Seal Art Society. With the support of technology, we are able to document and perpetuate these precious cultural heritages with greater accuracy, allowing art treasures like Yinquan to radiate new luster in the modern era.

The Yinquan stele at the Xiling Seal Art Society, through digital preservation and restoration, has not only been preserved physically but also sustained at the spiritual and cultural strata. This process is both a tribute to history and a commitment to the future, illustrating the steadfast progress of Xiling Seal Art Society in the protection and innovation of traditional culture.