Computer Assisted Archaeo-Anthropology on Damaged Mummified Remains

In this work we present the results of innovative methods in the anthropological analysis of a preincaic mummy. This mummy is seriously damaged and dismembered in six fragments. Moreover, due to the mummified soft tissues which cover the bones of the real mummy, researchers are prevented from performing traditional morphometric analysis. Therefore CT acquisition and 3D surface reconstruction of the rare bones provide a unique and extensive data-set to enhance the results of scientific studies. Landmarks identification and detailed measurements have been carried out on the virtual skeleton of the whole mummy, whose original position had been previously identified. In order to perform repeatability and comparison of measures, especially on the limbs, a detailed orientation procedure has been applied. Moreover the integration of Virtual Reality and CAD (Computer Aided Design) tools lead to the computation of additional geometric features on selected single bones. Several considerations are provided by the computation of detailed indexes on the sections, distances and curvatures of the limbs. Furthermore the virtual skull has been analysed following a computer based approach for the evaluation of artificial cranial deformation. Silhouettes extraction, multivariate analysis and 3D visualization allow estimating the place of origin in accordance with previous scientific and recognised works on the classification of induced deformations. These are the results of a complex work that aims at a project based approach exploiting new computer based technologies in the analysis of ancient human remains. A modular and integrative approach shows how a multidisciplinary team, made of engineers and anthropologists, can really enhance the knowledge on the mummy and present it in a sustainable way.