Extending the life of the Silk Manuscripts through data

Following their repatriation from the United States, the Zidanku Silk Manuscripts are now undergoing digital preservation at the Hunan Museum. Every fragment has been imaged, catalogued, and standardized to build up a comprehensive digital archive. After initial inspection, classification, and stabilization, the museum launched a high-precision holographic imaging program. A dedicated non-contact platform was used to conduct continuous spectral scanning from visible to near-infrared light. Researchers will next perform X-ray mapping on key fragments to distinguish cinnabar and ink inscriptions, and micro-CT scanning on unopened fragments to reveal their layered and folded structures without physical contact. These efforts will provide data for AI-assisted virtual restoration and support ongoing preservation and research initiatives.