This use case highlights a vast and iconic archive of stage costumes from the Opera Theatre of Rome, spanning the 19th century to today. Worn by legendary performers such as Carla Fracci, Pavarotti, and Nureyev, and designed by great artists like De Chirico and Zeffirelli, these garments embody Italy’s rich scenographic and sartorial tradition. 

With over 80,000 items crafted from diverse materials, such as fibres, feathers, sequins, and metallic threads, the collection reflects changing styles, techniques, and performance practices over two centuries. However, documenting such complexity, especially reflective or layered surfaces, presents major challenges. 

TEXTaiLES uses computational imaging, 3D scanning, and AI-powered digital twin technologies to record the construction, embellishment, and movement of the costumes. This approach supports conservation, metadata integration, and restoration, ensuring the long-term preservation and global visibility of this extraordinary operatic legacy.