The Scale Model as a Paradigm of Information Systems. The Large-Scale Model of Pompei

Abstract

The research starts analyzing the history and the survey techniques that were employed to carry out the large-scale model of Pompei. It was made of cork between 1861 and 1940 and it is now exhibited in the Archaeological Museum of Naples. The scale model covers an area of about 25 m² and it reproduces with great meticulousness and detail the main features of the archaeological site. The main objective is to value the technical and artistic means that were used in the accomplishment of this scale model, gathering historical information to unveil the protagonists who made possible the construction of the model. Starting with those who carried out the preparatory works, such as the topographic and the planimetric surveys that settled the basis for the definition of the model, continuing with the search of the expert artisans who worked with cork and reproduced with great skill to the last detail. In order to document the scale model, a three-dimensional survey was carried out using automated photogrammetry SfM (Structure from Motion). Obtaining, in this way, a virtual representation textured from a series of photographs taken around it, and that can be viewed through the Internet.