Vectorial application for the illustration of archaeological lithic artefacts using the “Stone Tools Illustrations with Vector Art” (STIVA) Method

Abstract

Lithic illustrations are often used in scientific publications to efficiently communicate the technological and morphological characteristics of stone tools. They offer invaluable information and insights not only on how stone raw materials were transformed into their final form, but also on the individuals that made them. Here, the “Stone Tools Illustrations with Vector Art” (STIVA) Method is presented, which involves the illustration of lithic artefacts using vectorial graphics software (Adobe Illustrator ©). This protocol follows an optimised step-by-step method, presenting ten major sections that constitute the creation of a lithic illustration: photography, vectorial software configuration, scale, outline, scar borders, ripples, cortex, symbols, composition, and export. This method has been developed to allow researchers, students and educators to create clear and competent illustrations for any application, from scientific publications to public outreach.

A survey of researchers' methods sharing practices and priorities

“…This suggests that researchers at earlier stages of their careers may be more drawn to methods sharing solutions that enable getting credit for their work. Indeed, it is notable that the first Lab Protocol to be published at PLOS ONE [37] was authored by a PhD student.…”

Multidisciplinary approach for documentation of an Anthropoid Wooden Coffin from the Late Period in Egypt

“…4. A texture can be provided for the mesh utilizing of the original images taken of the feature, providing a 3D photorealistic representation [39][40][41].…”

Do-It-Yourself digital archaeology: Introduction and practical applications of photography and photogrammetry for the 2D and 3D representation of small objects and artefacts

“…is one of the principal factors of archaeological research. Traditional means of visual representation of material culture commonly include illustrations in physical or digital formats [2]. However, in the recent decades, and following an expansion of accessibility to digital equipment, photographic and three-dimensional (3D) representations of material culture have become dominant methods in the field.…”

“…Its growth in popularity among researchers, heritage professionals, and the public is mostly due to its exceptional ability to bring people even closer to objects and landscapes, in combination with its low cost in comparison to other 3D recording methods (e.g. structured light, laser, CT scanning, and terrestrial/aerial LiDAR) [2,14]. Photogrammetry has been used in a range of archaeological contexts, including faunal and paleontological studies [16], lithic use wear analysis [17], small artefact analysis [18], and site photogrammetric surveys [19].…”