VIRTUAL Barcelona

Abstract

The reintegration of missing parts on stone sculptures has undergone a long historical development. Over an extended period, measures to supplement missing parts were associated with significant interventions in the original substance. It was only towards the end of the 18th century that initial approaches to a careful handling of the originals in this regard became apparent. The fundamental theoretical justification for processing missing parts was developed only in the 1960s. This suggested considering the artwork as a grown historical complex independent of time style and contemporary taste, preserving complexity while simultaneously taking into account the reintegration of missing parts from an aesthetic perspective. Regardless of the reasons leading to a decision for supplementation, there are numerous traditional methods of flaw supplementation that have been used in restoration for a long time. The approaches can vary and are associated with specific advantages and disadvantages. In recent times, new possibilities have emerged in the digital realm for creating three-dimensional models of works of art and editing them digitally. These advancements provide new avenues and can assist in decision-making in problematic cases. However, these approaches must also undergo critical restoration examination. This paper compares traditional methods of flaw supplementation with the modern approaches offered by 3D technology. The possibilities and limitations of all approaches to reintegrating missing parts are evaluated.