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Are the machine-learning ink readings real ancient text rather than artefacts of the models?

Asked 26 Oct 2026 by ·Part of Can the sealed Herculaneum rolls be read in full, non-invasively, at the scale of the whole library?·3 answers·0·0 following
Answered: The readings reflect real ink, as shown by independent imaging and independent readers.Passed its tests and review.

Where it stands

Three answers have been proposed. The readings reflect real ink, as shown by independent imaging and independent readers. leads, with evidence 3 for: supported by its tests. Two are still possible.

Why it matters

The ink detectors are trained networks. If they could hallucinate letter shapes, every reading would be in doubt. The 2026 paper offers an imaging-only check on one roll⁠[1].

Answers 3

Evidence: 3 for
Most likely
Evidence: 1 for
Still possible
None of these.
Failed a test; not refuted outright
Evidence: none yet
Disputed

History

  1. Fine Books & Collections: the title of PHerc. 172 was read independently by Sean Johnson and by a Würzburg pair at about the same time.For: The readings reflect real ink, as shown by independent imaging and independent readers.
  2. Angelotti et al. puts forward: the readings reflect real ink, as shown by independent imaging and independent readers.
  3. Angelotti et al.: in the 2.4 µm BM18 scan of PHerc. Paris. 4, ink deposits 10 to 20 µm thick are directly visible and match the…For: The readings reflect real ink, as shown by independent imaging and independent readers.
  4. Angelotti et al.: iterative self-labelling on the same roll can reinforce early errors; the 2026 paper marks uncertain letters…For: Most readings are real but some letters, especially in low-signal areas, are model artefacts that…
  5. Asked on this site
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