Microscope vs. Micro-CT: Comparing Different Approaches and Discovering New Possibilities in the Analysis of the Ivory Beads of the Paleolithic Krems-Wachtberg Twin Burial

The twin burial of the Gravettian site of Krems-Wachtberg is among the most renowned Paleolithic burials in Europe. It contained 53 oblong ivory beads, with a flat backside and a partly bulgy front side. Similarly shaped beads also appear at other Gravettian sites such as Hohle Fels (D), Geißenklösterle (D), Grub/Kranawetberg (AUT), Barma Grande (I), and Dolní Vĕstonice (CZ); however, not in such quantity.
In a preceding study, the ivory beads and other adornments from the occupation layer were closely examined using a Keyence VHX 7000 stereomicroscope. Abrasion marks were observed lateral to the bead´s perforation in 24 of 53 cases, leading to the conclusion that these had been worn prior to their placement in the burial. In the remaining 29 beads, signs of use-wear could not be identified - either because the perforation was incrusted with sediment or fragmented (26 of 29 cases), or the perforation shows no signs of wear at all (3 of 29 cases).
The aim of the current project is to scan a sample of six ivory beads using micro-computed tomography (μCT) and compare the results with the data obtained through stereomicroscopic analysis. This technique enables the virtual removing of sediment, allowing for more detailed investigation into the production techniques and potentially use-wear traces.
The future objective is to scan all 53 ivory beads to gain a better understanding of the lifecycle and production sequence of each bead, especially given the absence of direct evidence of their production on site and the lack of raw forms. Additionally, the original position of the beads within the burial can be virtually reconstructed. This approach brings us one step closer to comprehending the role of adornments in the burial practices of the Upper Paleolithic.