New Super Model: Dutch Demeter I

Exciting news for Dutch history enthusiasts and researchers! Following the announcement at last week’s Transkribus Users Conference 24, the new Super Model Dutch Demeter I is now available for use. This new Super Model is designed to significantly improve text recognition for Dutch manuscripts and printed materials from the 16th to 20th centuries. But what makes it different and how does it work? Let’s have a closer look.

What are Super Models

Super Models for text recognition are the most advanced models we have to offer. These models offer a distinct advantage by combining an optical component for image processing with a comprehensive language model that improves the extracted text information. The language model is versatile, handling multiple languages and both old and new language forms simultaneously. This versatility results in the production of exceptionally high-quality text.

Dutch Demeter I

Dutch Demeter I is not your average text recognition model. This Super Model has been trained on a huge collection of over 18 million words, thanks to collaboration with institutions such as the Stadsarchief Amsterdam and the Nationaal Archief. This means it’s well-equipped to handle a wide range of document types, from notarial handwriting to Dutch East India Company records. Whether you’re dealing with 16th-century chronicles or 20th-century paperwork, Dutch Demeter I is at your service. It provides accuracy and depth, making it a reliable companion for researchers and historians.

Why use a Super Model like the Dutch Demeter I? Besides outperforming other large models, Super Models are particularly useful when working with mixed materials. Some archival or manuscript collections may contain different types of writing, printed as well as handwritten documents, pre-printed forms filled in by hand, index cards, etc. With the Dutch Demeter I, you can use the model on both types of text – no need to change settings or models.

How can I access Dutch Demeter I?

Curious to see how Dutch Demeter I works with your documents? Scholar subscribers can simply use the public model  for text recognition on app.transkribus.eu and try it out.

Want to try it for free? Sign up for a free 30-day trial of the Scholar subscription in the Transkribus app to try out Dutch Demeter I and other exclusive features and see if it fits your needs.