When it comes to using immersive technology to help recreate history for educational purposes we’ve more often seen reproductions within virtual reality (VR), however a newly revealed application utilising the Microsoft HoloLens is breathing new life into history and turning back the hands of time on artefacts and exhibits to show just what they looked like when brand new.

The app comes from HoloForge Interactive, the holographic division of Asobo Studio who have teamed up with the teams up with the French National Center for Scientific Research (CNRS) which as part of its work undertakes both geometric and chromatic reconstruction of major works of art and archeological finds from all around the world, preserving them for future generations. With HoloForge Interactive however they have now produced the first “digital polychromic restitution of History”. Revealing to users of the HoloLens just what statues, decorations and paintings looked like originally by layering their painted and completed forms over the top of the original.

“Until now, vizualisation and reconstruction were only possible thanks to mapping projection (think of the light scenography on monuments). It’s still a flat and static solution: the public cannot move all around objects.” Explains Loïc Espinasse, Engineer at Archeotransfert, transfert and valorisation department of Archeovision. “UMS SHS-3D Archeovision partners with Asobo Studio’s holographic division – HoloForge – to explore new usages in augmented reality for Human and Social Sciences, archeology and cultural heritage. Our collaboration with a major private operator in this field will push forward scientific challenges and technicity. Wether it is to handle, consult, or use research data, we are convinced that our development will change usages for good. We are happy to write few pages of this thrilling adventure with HoloForge.”

“We are so proud to bring our solutions to CNRS, in the field of major cultural projects.” Continues Espinasse. “Scientists and museum curators pass on the Humanity History, thanks to all the objects and legacy we have inherited. They will now be able to do it in a more precise way. We will look at pieces of art differently as holographic information will enhance them with all the details we need to understand and enjoy them better.”

VRFocus will continue to bring you news on this project as it develops.