

These are broad topics, so the discussion is constrained to three material types glass, metal and painted surfaces. Then, the most common degradation mechanisms and phenomena, observed on artefacts are defined.

First, fundamental scientific axioms about the interactions between matter and light are introduced. In the second chapter explanations about materials’ appearance, derived from physics, optics, as well as art conservation and cognate disciplines, such as material science and analytic chemistry, are presented. Then, the potential uses of 3D models of artefacts are mentioned, and the basic requirements for the successful implementation of computer modelling in the study of artefacts are underlined. Next, the appearance of archaeological finds is decomposed, mentioning the parameters which are responsible for their complexity. Concepts about artefacts’ cycle of life and artefacts’ state, or physicality, in relation to time and change are presented.

Its theoretical basis, as explained in the introductory chapter, is derives from philosophical approaches to artefacts. It is believed to make a contribution in filling the gap between the archaeological perspective about artefacts’ temporal and spatial nature and materials modeling. This dissertation is dealing with the accurate representation of archaeological materials in 3D modeling.
