On the exploitation and significance of bivalve shells at the Magdalenian site of Petersfels (South Germany)
Venditti F, Falcucci A, Schürch B (2025)
Publication Type: Conference contribution, Abstract of a poster
Publication year: 2025
Conference Proceedings Title: Converging Horizons: Cultural and Environmental Interactrions in the Prehisotry of the European Far West
Event location: Faro
Abstract
Shells, particularly mollusks from marine and freshwater, have served as essential proxies in exploring
cultural and environmental interactions. Shells can reveal information about the habitats from which they
were collected, the methods used for gathering and processing them, and the symbolic meanings various
cultures have attributed to them. In this context, the site of Petersfels in Germany, with its rich collection
of modified shells, presents a unique opportunity to investigate the origins, functions, and symbolic
meanings of mollusk shells for the Magdalenian foragers of central Europe.
This study presents findings from our investigation of the collection of bivalve shells recovered from the
site, including 86 Glycymeris specimens, 2 Gryphaea arcuata, 2 Polymesoda, and a fragment of an oyster.
By combining optical and digital microscopic observations with experimentation and statistical
multivariate analysis, we aimed to 1) uncover the origins and selection of the bivalves, 2) discuss
modifications of shells made by anthropogenic and natural agents, and 3) elucidate aspects of their
functions and symbolism.
Our detailed microscopic analysis showed that the bivalve shells were repurposed into ornaments. Some
Glycymeris likely originated from the Mediterranean Sea or Atlantic and were collected or exchanged by
the Magdalenian for their substantial cultural and symbolic value. Despite the integrity of the assemblage,
the Glycymeris experienced taphonomic alterations that likely occurred after abandonment. The alteration
affected the shell’s surfaces, partially erasing manufacturing and micro use-related traces. However, in four
specimens, we noted visible parallel striations on the facets of the umbo, suggesting that some of the
perforations were created through abrasion. Additionally, one Glycymeris exhibited a perforation
technique consistent with sawing.
The two fossil specimens of Gryphaea arcuata were instead perforated by drilling. The sample showed
rounded and smooth perforations and evidence of plastic deformations, hinge thinning, and worn facets
resulting from extended use. Two Glycymeris displayed double perforations, indicating a willingness to
reuse the shells after the first perforation wore out.
The utilization of mollusk shells signifies a crucial aspect of the symbolic and artistic expressions and the
material culture of Magdalenian groups. The long distances traveled to gather or exchange them emphasize
the significance of Glycymeris shells for the Magdalenian people at Petersfels, and their use reflects the
depth and complexity of human thought and creativity during this period.
Authors with CRIS profile
Involved external institutions
Germany (DE)How to cite
APA:
Venditti, F., Falcucci, A., & Schürch, B. (2025). On the exploitation and significance of bivalve shells at the Magdalenian site of Petersfels (South Germany). Poster presentation at Tagung der Hugo Obermaier-Gesellschaft, 66th Annual Meeting, Faro, PT.
MLA:
Venditti, Flavia, Armando Falcucci, and Benjamin Schürch. "On the exploitation and significance of bivalve shells at the Magdalenian site of Petersfels (South Germany)." Presented at Tagung der Hugo Obermaier-Gesellschaft, 66th Annual Meeting, Faro Ed. Harald Floss, Yvonne Tafelmaier, Amira Adaileh, Florent Rivals, Mara Weber & Marcel Weiß (Vorstand der HOG), 2025.
BibTeX: Download