In 1977, American scientists Eric Jumper and John Jackson processed electronically a negative photographic image of the shroud and discovered that it produces a three-dimensional image, a feature that is not possessed by normal paintings or photographs. According to the tests, the shroud dates back between 1260 and 1390. But the form chosen for the tests caused a lot of debate, and the problem is still open today. These days, no other tests are in progress. But the results obtained earlier indicate that the human image on the shroud isn't necessarily a painting.
Most scientists agree the image was produced by an oxidation-dehydration of the cellulose fibers.
In their 1997 book The Second Messiah , Christopher Knight and Robert Lomas claim it's the body of Jacques de Molay, who was tortured by church inquisitors in 1307, but did not die until he was burned at the stake in 1314. They say the Catholic Church should allow new tests. Italy For the rest of the day's top world stories, click here , to our International News page. Keep up on the latest breaking developments on this story and the rest of Europe by clicking here to our Raw News page. The Web Copyright 2000 ABC News Internet Ventures.