Moulding

The moulding technique allows to make imprints of artefacts discovered, and thus supplies scientific experts with immediate access to the archaeological material for study purposes.

In order to take a surface impression of an object, underwater or on land, the stamping methods is applied. This technique is usually used for huge stone blocks on which inscriptions have been engraved. A special flexible silicone has been developed to make underwater impressions of the engraved objects. After cleaning the object, the silicone is attached to it to coat the imprints. The layer is then covered with a sheet of lead, which is gently hammered in order to insure that the silicone moulds into the smallest crevices. Once the silicone has transformed into a flexible membrane, usually after 16 to 24 hours, the inscriptions appear in reverse on the silicone and can be studied in detail on land.