28 July 2026
Recently, the American Center of Research hosted four Department of Antiquities staff members for training on the Laser Aided Profiler (LAP). Designed to significantly speed up the illustration and digitization of ceramic sherds, the LAP can help further the study of ceramic analysis through the documentation of large collections, some of which have sat for years in storage without analysis. The device creates accurate, black-and-white digital drawings that show the shape and thickness of a sherd, and it is small enough to fit into a carrier the size of a large briefcase, making it useful during fieldwork. As more projects working within in Jordan embrace this technology, it is critical for DoA staff to become familiar with the instrument.
From July 22 to 23, 2026, ACOR staff worked with four DoA employees to give them experience with the LAP. Prof. Sarah Wenner led the training, aided by Yara Alkhatib. The group began with a brief review of the basics of ancient ceramic analysis, a critical component of using the Laser Aided Profiler competently. They then became familiar with the software before building their own databases of digitized ceramic illustrations. Overall, the speed of the LAP, its capability, and its potential to aid future DoA projects impressed the participants.
