Ancient Tamil Stone Dataset

Categories of Inscriptions

The dataset contains inscriptions that can be classified into five primary categories based on their state and style of preservation:

1. Inscribed Inscriptions: These are inscriptions that remain intact and are carved deeply into the stone. They are relatively well-preserve and legible, providing clear information.
2. Eroded Inscriptions: Over time, weathering has eroded parts of these inscriptions. While some characters may still be discernible, much of the original text has fade.
3. Projected Inscriptions: These inscriptions are carved in such a way that the text projects outward from the stone surface. The unique style often makes them easier to read but also more susceptible to damage.
4. Rural Paleographic Inscriptions: These inscriptions represent a specific style of writing used in rural areas. They often reflect the simpler, everyday language and script of the common people of the time.
5. Urban Paleographic Inscriptions: In contrast, urban paleographic inscriptions were typically create in more sophisticate scripts. These were often commissioned by rulers or temple authorities and represent higher levels of literacy and formal language use.

3D Model Construction

The images capture for each inscription are use to construct 3D models of the stones, providing a digital preservation of these historical records. The number of input images plays a significant role in the clarity and detail of the final model. Our experiments show that with a minimum of 10 input images, a clear 3D model can be constructed. However, when 15-25 images are use, the resulting models are much sharper, offering greater detail and accuracy for further study and analysis.

The inclusion of LiDAR technology further enhances the accuracy of the 3D models by capturing intricate details in the inscriptions’ surfaces. This technology is especially useful for eroded or projected inscriptions, where traditional photography may struggle to capture the full depth and nuance of the text.

List of Inscriptions

1. Inscription 1 – Eroded Inscriptions: Despite the wear and tear, some segments of the text are still visible, offering fragments of the original narrative.
2. Inscription 2 – Urban Paleographic Inscriptions: Displaying the formal urban writing style, these inscriptions are a testament to the sophistication of the era’s linguistic and cultural practices.
3. Inscription 3 – Projected Inscriptions: These inscriptions protrude from the surface of the stone, creating a unique visual experience and allowing easier identification of certain characters.
4. Inscription 4 – Inscribed Inscriptions: These deeply carved inscriptions remain remarkably preserved, providing a clearer representation of the historical texts.
5. Inscription 5 – Rural Paleographic Inscriptions: These inscriptions offer valuable insight into the language and script of rural Tamil Nadu, reflecting a simpler style.
6. Inscription 6 – Eroded Inscriptions: As with Inscription 1, this inscription has suffered from the ravages of time, but still offers partial data for epigraphic studies.