Studying Archaeological Ceramics Using Digital Methods
As part of the Master’s in Archaeology and Preventive Conservation of the Jaussen & Savignac Programme (Université Paris 1 Panthéon-Sorbonne et The Royal Commission for AlUla), students benefit from professional training designed to develop specialised skills in the study, documentation and enhancement of archaeological collections. This practical and theoretical approach is in line with the programme’s emphasis on combining academic training with field experience and modern archaeological methods.
From 1 to 12 June 2026, at the Michelet Centre of Université Paris 1 Panthéon-Sorbonne in Paris, Wissal Ghounaim, a first-year Master’s student, and Mayssa Abdul Kadous, a second-year Master’s student, took part in a professional training course dedicated to the inventory and technological description of archaeological ceramics, under the supervision of Professor François Giligny.
Over the course of two weeks, the students were trained in the documentation of archaeological and experimental ceramics, collection assessment, as well as the recording and digitisation of documents and objects. The training notably focused on the reading and identification of macroscopic traces of manufacture, providing a better understanding of ceramic production techniques.
The programme also introduced the students to several digital methods applied to heritage studies, including Reflectance Transformation Imaging (RTI), photogrammetry, 3D modelling, and 3D digitisation using structured-light scanning.
This experience enabled the students to develop skills at the intersection of archaeology, the technological study of ancient productions and digital technologies, while becoming familiar with contemporary methods for the scientific documentation of collections.
This training reflects the approach of the Jaussen & Savignac Programme, which combines practical learning, scientific research and mastery of digital tools to prepare students for the diverse professions of archaeology, conservation and heritage studies.
