Kota reliquary


Kota reliquary, Gabon • Wood, copper & iron • Private collection
Kota reliquary, Gabon • Wood, copper & iron • Private collection

Video CT scan : 3D opaque VRT view


 

This Kota reliquary is almost completely covered with strips of metal, which theoretically would make a scan of the wooden core unsatisfactory. 


But surprisingly, as the metal is relatively thin, the scan permits non-destructive observation of the technique used to secure the strips of copper, nicely distinguishing between genuine Kota reliquaries, such as this one, and other more problematic pieces. It can also show any anomalies in the figure under the metal skin, such as breaks at the neck.

 


Video CT scan : 3D half opaque VRT view


 Video CT scan : 3D maximum intensity projections


Video CT scan : 3D translucent VRT view 


 Video CT scan : 2D MPR frontal slices