Abstract
Abstract. Accurate color recording is a fundamental feature for proper cultural heritage documentation, cataloging and preservation. However, the methodology used in most cases limits the results since it is based either on perceptual procedures or on the application of digital enhancement techniques only. The objective of this study is to apply a rigorous procedure for the characterization of cameras based on a second-order polynomial model. Trichromatic digital cameras capture color information in the well-known RGB format. Nevertheless, the signal generated by the digital camera is device dependent. By means of the characterization, we establish the relationship between device-dependent RGB values and the tristimulus coordinates defined by the CIE standard colorimetric observer. Once the camera is characterized, users obtain output images in the sRGB space that is independent of the sensor of the camera. We applied the methodology on a set of pictures targeting Levantine rock art motifs in Cova Civil (Castellón, Spain) which is considered part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We used raw image files, with different exposure conditions, with raw RGB values captured by the sensor. The outcomes obtained are satisfactory and very promising for proper color documentation in cultural heritage documentation.
Highlights
The integrity of cultural and archaeological heritage is continuously under threat
The correct description of color is a fundamental task in heritage documentation and preservation
In this paper it can be seen that colorimetry allows the characterization of color in a non-subjective way by means of the well-known Commission Internationale de l'Éclairage (CIE) tristimulus values approach
Summary
The integrity of cultural and archaeological heritage is continuously under threat. In recent years, there has been an increase in actions that endanger historical heritage sites by human or natural degradation. Its conservation and maintenance become a priority for professionals in the sector, and it is increasingly necessary to collect exhaustive and accurate information to preserve heritage in the future (FernándezLozano et al, 2017). It is becoming more frequent to combine classical (manual documentation techniques based on perceptual procedures) with rigorous procedures, supported by color measurements and photographs (Cassen et al, 2014; Robert et al, 2016; Rogerio-Candelera, 2015). The technical measurement and specification of color is a key aspect for proper archaeological documentation (Iturbe et al, 2018; Korytkowski and Olejnik-Krugly, 2017; Ruiz and Pereira, 2014). The correct color definition allows a more comprehensive graphic definition, a better understanding of the scene, and provides relevant technical information especially for research and preservation tasks
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