NIR Multispectral Image Fusion Technique for Epigraphic Analysis of Archaeological Finds

The research of epigraphy faces challenging decoding issues due to the condition of archaeological objects and the texts written on them. In two-dimensional handwriting, primarily created with ink, issues like ink fading, absorption, two-sided writing (known as apisthographs), surface wear (on materials like leather and papyri), and patina layers on ostraca, create a “noisy” and blurred image of the objects. These factors complicate the deciphering process, which currently relies heavily on human expertise and can often be difficult or impossible.