Archaeological Reconstruction
The Manchester Technique
The technique relies on the use of soft tissue measurement and basic anatomical science.
It is frequently argued that detailed anatomical structures in the substructure of of a reconstruction is unnecessary. We would argue that such substructures are essential particularly when dealing with cases with congenital deformities or where evidence of trauma is manifest.
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| 1. First a copy of the skull is taken. This skull has been CT scanned to ensure no damage occurs to the original skull. Copies can also be produced in plaster. The skull is then mounted on a stand in the Frankfurt plane. 2. Pegs are then inserted into the skull to represent the average tissue depth at those points determined by the age, sex and racial origin of the individual. Wax is used to build the muscles onto the skull. The first muscles to be modelled are the temporalis and the masseter. 3. Frontal view of the early muscle stage detailed in step 2. 4. Only the broad muscle groups are built onto the skull. A rough indication of the general shape and size of the nose can be added, in line with the commonly accepted rule of proportions. |
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| 5. The muscles are now developed further by adding those used to convey facial expression. As all these muscles are built up over the skull, their shapes and contours will develop, determined by the bone to which they are attached or over which they lie. The ears are also added.
6. All the precisely calculated anatomical modelling is now covered up by strips of clay laid over its surface to simulate the outer layers of subcutaneous tissue and skin. In this example, only half of the skin layer has been added to show how closely it resembles the anatomical side where the muscles are still plain to see. 7. After the final modelling of the superficial features has been completed, a mould is made of the head and then cast in wax. Other materials (bronze resin or plaster) can also be used for the final finished head. 8. The finished head with colouring and hair added. These details are added following consultation with archaeological experts of the period. |
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