Introduction
The object I chose for this 3D modeling project is the uniquely crafted “Dilly” duck trophy. A duck decoy that has been made into a trophy: front reads “Midwest Conference Swimming Champs” and bottom reads ” ‘Dilly’ The traveling trophy awarded first in 1939″ and includes the names and years of the schools that won it. These details not only emphasize the trophy’s unique history but also highlight the longstanding tradition of the competition. For more details about the trophy and its history, please visit the Omeka digital object entry.
I used Scaniverse to scan and create a 3D model of the trophy, providing an interactive experience.
Observations and Reflections
How does attempting to model an object compare to simply viewing one in an exhibition?
Spending extended time closely examining the trophy allowed me to observe even the smallest details. Unlike simply viewing an object from a distance in an exhibition, the 3D modeling process required me to analyze every angle, consider the finer details, and thoroughly understand the duck’s structure, texture, and historical marks.
Does the process of photogrammetry encourage close looking and attention to details you might otherwise have ignored?
Yes. In order to capture sufficient data to construct an accurate 3D model, I had to carefully plan the shooting angles and lighting conditions. This process made me focus on the fine textures, surface engravings, and subtle details that I might have otherwise ignored — yet these elements are crucial for building a high-quality 3D representation.
Does engaging with objects in this way make you more curious about this (and/or other) things, as well as the stories they can tell?
By personally conducting the 3D scanning, I was able to go beyond merely viewing the object’s physical shape. I gained a deeper appreciation for its historical background and cultural significance. The detailed scanning and documentation of the “Dilly” Duck Trophy made me more curious about the traditions and stories behind this item and other similar historical artifacts.
Conclusion
This 3D modeling experience has helped me develop a more detailed approach to observing historical objects, while also demonstrating the advantages of digital preservation.
2 thoughts on “Blog 5”
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This is such an interesting object! The 3D model is super detailed—I can clearly see the text on the trophy and even some of the faded white spots. I totally agree with your thoughts on 3D modeling. In my post, I also mentioned how closely examining an object from all angles is a key part of the process. It not only helps with creating an accurate model but also gives us a fresh perspective on the object itself.
You mentioned paying more attention to subtle details like the textures, do you think there would be similar value in being able to touch the object? When you mentioned the tactile aspect of your object it made me think about the potential value of using 3D models to 3D print replicas of objects for exhibits. Some people might be able to get more out of an artifact if tactile learning was incorporated.