Researchers at Dundee University helped recreating the face of a Viking woman. Her skeleton was excavated in York more than 30 years ago.
The reconstruction of the face was accomplished by use of the laser scanning technology. Thus, her skull was three-dimensionally recorded and presented as a 3D digital model. Eyes, hair and a bonnet were digitally generated to complete the appearance.
The project was part of an investment of about £150,000 at the Jorvik Viking Center in York. It was the centre’s owner’s idea to breathe life into York’s Vikings.
The female skeleton was one of four unearthed in York. The reconstruction was realized with special computer equipment which enabled the users to “feel” what they were modeling on screen. The face’s anatomy was modeled from the deep muscles to the surface.
Janice Aitken, researcher at Dundee University, took the digital reconstruction and added the finishing touches. She used the same type of software which is also employed for creating 3D animations in the film industry. She digitally generated eyes, hair and a bonnet and gave her a natural look.
Now, the reconstruction presents a highlight at the new Investigate Coppergate exhibition in York. The exhibition is looking at the Viking’s diet and the diseases from which they suffered. The final battles of the Viking age in York are issued, too. They announced the end of the Viking era and the beginning of the Normans.
Skeletal remains with battle wounds as well as a full skeleton with evidence of severe trauma are part of the exhibition. This leads to discussions about the way they died.
Source: BBC News (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-tayside-central-13064786)