A 3D subtractive brush system for an immersive, multilayered archaeological map

Digital archaeology is a rapidly evolving field, continually adapting new technologies to interpret diverse data sources. This paper details the superimposition of 2D maps and 3D data in an interactive 3D space, and their selective subtraction by a 3D brush system. The subject of study is the archaeological landscape of the medieval city of Angkor in Cambodia, an area of approximately 3500 square kilometres. By cutting through the superimposed layers of LIDAR point clouds, 2D mapping of the archaeological features, and the 3D reconstructions of the living city of Angkor, the brush system reveals both correspondences and discontinuities through interactive examination.