High tech regenerates antiques



And here's a great example of some of that archeology know-how... As you know, most antiques go through big changes when they stay buried underground for hundreds or thousands of years. But thanks to some technological advancements, scientists are now able to restore their original shape and luster. Let's watch an ancient army come back to life.

The world famous terracotta warriors from the mausoleum of Emperor Qinshihuang used to be painted with colors all over. But only remnants of the painting remains when they were dug up. So they were "invited" into the labs, and it's there that experts finally make necessary repair to give back their "coats".

A full-size model of one of the caves in Dunhuang has been set up in the Capital Museum and become its biggest magnet for visitors.

Wu Jian, Archaeologist, said, "We have digitally scanned the original cave and made a map on the computer. Then we recreated the cave here in strict accordance to the map. Now Beijing residents don't have to travel far to see the Dunhuang fresco."

The exhibition also displays China's first cultural relics conservation mobile laboratory. It provides emergency treatment to the most fragile antiques, such as silk, as soon as they are excavated.

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