Authenticity through VR-based documentation of cultural heritage. A theoretical approach based on conservation and documentation practices

The visualization of 3D reconstructed artifacts often requires significant computing resources. The implementation of an object in a virtual reality (VR) application even necessitates the reduction of the polygonal mesh. Consequently, the communication and dissemination of “authentic” 3D reconstructions via immersive VR technologies has been a nearly impossible feat for many researchers. However, is the issue really computing resources, or is it rather the notion of authenticity in an “auratic” sense, i.e., an excessive focus on physical evidence and survey data? In the present paper, we will discuss the authenticity requirements for virtual archaeology as set by the Seville Principles(2011), and we will analyse some limitations related to the current approaches. Furthermore, we will propose a pluralistic notion based on the contextualization of 3D objects in VR environments with synesthetic (i.e. multisensory) information. This new notion of authenticity relies on conservation meanings rather than physical features. In line with this approach, two case studies will be commented: the multimodal 3D-documentation of the Jupiter Column(2AD) in Ladenburg, and the VR-based re-enactment of a modern work of art, the audio-kinetic sculpture Kaleidophonic Dog(1967) by Stephan von Huene. These two projects provide valuable data for a revision of the notion of authenticity in both virtual archaeology and art conservation.