This research explores the integration of digital technology into cultural heritage preservation, focusing on Indonesian sculptures from the Hindu-Buddha period housed in museums in the Netherlands.
The study underscores three primary benefits of digital technology: accessibility, utility, and inclusivity. Accessibility enables universal access to cultural data, utility allows for preservation and in-depth analysis, and inclusivity ensures openness to diverse audiences.
The paper discusses the historical context of Indonesian sculptures from the Hindu-Buddha period, many of which were acquired by colonialists and housed in museums abroad.
The methodology section describes the digital recording techniques employed, particularly photogrammetry, which captures detailed and precise documentation of the sculptures. The paper outlines the workflow and techniques involved in the photogrammetry process, emphasizing its flexibility and cost-effectiveness.
A significant aspect of the project involves digitally reconstructing the heads of Dhyani Buddha statues from the Borobudur Temple, utilizing an artificial intelligence system to match heads found in Dutch museums with bodies remaining at the temple site. This approach aims to reunite separated elements of sculptures, enhancing their historical and cultural significance.
In conclusion, the paper outlines the outputs of the project, which include digitizing Indonesian sculptures, creating an inclusive digital database, and designing an artificial intelligence prototype for studying these artifacts. The authors suggest that this project could serve as a model for similar initiatives worldwide, promoting the preservation and accessibility of cultural heritage in the digital era.
