3D laser scanning of Parthian sculptural reliefs: The experience of the Iranian-Italian Joint Expedition in Khuzestan (Iran)

Three-dimensional (3D) digital models obtained by laser scanning are particularly useful for monuments located in remote places and suffering from erosion such as ancient rock carvings. Here we describe research conducted by the Iranian-Italian Joint Expedition in Khuzestan, which conducted surveys on three rock carvings dating to the Parthian period (2nd century B.C.–3rd century A.D.). The rock carvings of Hung-e Azhdar, Hung-e Yaralivand, and Hung-e Kamalvand are located near the modern city of Izeh, in the highlands of the Khuzestan province of southwestern Iran. The 3D digital models of the rock carvings provide new information on their method of manufacture and cultural significance by bringing forward previously undetected details, both technical and iconographical. The digital measurements reveal that the Hung-e Azhdar relief was re-sculpted in antiquity, and that on the upper part of the Hung-e Yaralivand relief there are clear traces of an inscription unnoticed by previous surveys. Given that these observations are the result of objective measurements verifiable by other observers using the same data, the 3D surface analysis offers promise of an advance in the study of ancient sculptural works and the models are innovative means for documenting and sharing both raw and elaborated data.