Thing-Human-Emotion-Beauty model for multi-dimensional perception of cultural relics’ values from the design perspective

The digitalization of museums offers new opportunities for presenting and interpreting cultural artifacts, yet visitor engagement and perceived value often remain limited due to low interactivity and insufficient experiential design. To address these challenges, this study proposes the THEB model, a four-dimensional framework for enhancing cultural relic value perception across Thing, Human, Emotion, and Beauty dimensions. The model was applied to a case study of the Rhinoceros-shaped Bronze Zun Inlaid with Gold and Silver Cloud Design. Guided by the THEB framework, AI-generated images and a narrative video were produced using tools such as Midjourney and Pixverse AI. A controlled user study with 230 participants compared the AI-generated video to traditional museum content. Results indicate that while historical depth was not significantly enhanced, the AI video substantially improved engagement, satisfaction, and immersion, particularly in aesthetic appreciation and emotional resonance. These findings validate the THEB model as a practical and conceptual tool, demonstrating its potential to guide museum exhibition design toward more holistic, emotionally engaging, and interactive experiences, bridging material, humanistic, and aesthetic dimensions of cultural heritage.