Balinese Barong Mask
Barong masks are an important part of Balinese cultural and religious tradition. Rooted in centuries of mythology influenced by animism and Hinduism, the Barong represents the spirit of good, protection and balance. In the traditional Barong Dance, he appears as a guardian figure, facing Rangda, the embodiment of evil, in a symbolic performance that reflects the ongoing balance between opposing forces. Characterized by a lion-like face, intricate carvings, bold colors and expressive eyes, each Barong mask is a unique handcrafted artifact with strong cultural meaning.
Digitizing objects like the Barong mask through high-quality 3D scanning opens new possibilities for cultural preservation and education. Photogrammetry allows delicate and historically significant artifacts to be documented in accurate, full-color 3D without physical contact. These digital models can be used for long-term archiving, interactive online exhibitions, AR and VR experiences and educational applications, making cultural heritage accessible to a global audience while preserving fine details for future generations.
For this Scan of the Month, we digitized the Barong mask using our Momentum 2.0. The mask was carefully placed on the glass turntable, allowing for unobstructed image capture from all angles. Camera positions and settings were adjusted to ensure optimal coverage of the mask’s complex geometry, deep carvings and vibrant surface details.
Once the setup was complete, the scanner was closed and the capture process began. The resulting image set was reconstructed and textured using RealityScan, producing a detailed, full-color 3D model that accurately represents both the shape and appearance of the original object. To ensure dimensional accuracy, a scale bar was used during scanning, allowing the final model to be reconstructed at true, real-world scale.
The finished result is an interactive 3D model that preserves the physical qualities of the Barong mask while making it accessible in a digital format. From fine surface details to bold color transitions, the scan demonstrates how photogrammetry can be used to document culturally significant objects with precision, whether for visualization, archiving, or storytelling.
