Digital imaging allows conservators to assess different approaches to restoring vase-painting without ever handling an object. Computer imaging helped visualize various options for this group of fragments from a red-figured krater (mixing vessel) depicting the sea monster Scylla on view in Stories of the Trojan War (Gallery 110) at the Getty Villa.

The images below present an array of computer-generated options for the fragment group. The central area of loss was digitally filled with flat colors of a slightly different tone from the actual fragments (options 1–3 below). Repeating motifs, such as the dolphins and dogs, were completed by incorporating silhouettes (options 5–7 below).

Investigations into the identity of the isolated element in front of Scylla's face involved trial and error (options 4–7 below). Similar imagery found on other ancient objects and minute clues on the fragments themselves revealed that Scylla is probably holding an octopus (option 7 below).

Option 1
The central loss is colored black to integrate with the black-gloss background.

Option 2
The loss is colored red-orange to integrate with the red-figured imagery.

Option 3
The loss is colored part black and part red-orange to harmonize with the original fragments. This is how the object is currently displayed.

Option 4
A swimming bull's foreleg is added and adjoined to the isolated detail in front of Scylla's face. The awkward protuberance on the knee invalidates this option.

Option 5
The fragmentary dog and dolphin are completed based on the existing imagery. The added arm holding a conch shell reflects a published interpretation of the scene.

Option 6
A bull's leg is added in a plausible position. Other vases depicting swimming bulls were studied to help position the leg.

Option 7
An octopus is incorporated based on other vase-painting imagery. The sea creature is linked to a mysterious element near the upper dog, which seems to be a section of a tentacle.