Conservation technologies
The Garrick Club commissioned Conservation Technologies to replicate an 18th century terracotta bust of William Shakespeare by the sculptor Roubiliac. The replica bust was to be produced in plaster at actual size (approximately 620 mm tall). A method of replication involving no contact with the original bust was required. A 'new' base for the original bust was also created in 18th-century style.
The original bust was laser scanned and an accurate 3D computer model created, from which a master model was 'printed' in two parts. A mould was then taken from the master model and the replica cast in plaster, which was painted and 'finished' by hand to give the appearance of terracotta. Working from drawings supplied by a curator, Conservation Technologies also created a 3D computer model of a new base and generated images showing how the original bust would appear when displayed on the base. After a few minor adjustments to its design, Conservation Technologies produced the actual base, which was hand-finished to look like aged terracotta.
The replica bust will be on display at a temporary exhibition entitled 'Shakespeare cast as the nation's hero' at the Orleans House Gallery in London from 30 August until 19 October 2008.
Have a look at images taken during the recording process in the image gallery.
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