The sculpture of Bernini's Elefantino, which holds an obelisk in Rome's Piazza della Minerva, has suffered damage. A marble tusk detached and was found next to the monument. Authorities are investigating whether it was vandalism or deterioration due to weather conditions. The Culture Minister described it as an act of barbarity and announced its restoration, an episode preceding a major exhibition on the artist.
3D Modeling and Laser Scanning in Heritage Restoration 💻
Situations like this highlight the usefulness of digitization technologies in conservation. A precise 3D model, obtained through laser scanning or photogrammetry, becomes a fundamental tool. It serves as documentation of the previous state and a guide for restoration interventions. Additionally, it allows analyzing fractures and virtually testing the reintegration of the fragment before applying any material to the original, ensuring the reversibility and precision of the work.
Did the Elephant Have a Spare Tusk in the Repository? 🧰
One thinks that, given how predictable mass tourism and the passage of time are, iconic monuments should have a spare parts pack archived in some ministry basement. Marble tusk number 2, a spare bronze nose, maybe an ear. So, when the inevitable happens, instead of a scandal, one would just need to grab the wrench and Bernini's instruction manual. Step 1: Secure elephant. Step 2: Screw in new tusk.