Publications
Tracing the carvers on the rocks
A groundbreaking study on the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Tanum's rock carvings reveals new insights into Bronze Age carvers' techniques and societal roles. By analyzing carving methods, bedrock choices, and style variations, researchers have begun to bridge gaps in our understanding of these ancient artisans. The project employs advanced AI algorithms to quantify motifs and grain structures, offering a novel approach to studying rock art. Unlike previous work that focused on 'pecking,' this study emphasizes the broader concept of carving, providing a more nuanced perspective on Bronze Age society's technical skills and scientific knowledge.
Bringing it all together
A photogrammetric survey of the Bronze Age rock art panel Tanum 247:1 in Kalleby, Sweden, uncovered a previously undocumented boat carving that had eluded researchers for over 50 years. This discovery underscores the potential of integrating digital and traditional documentation methods to enhance our understanding of ancient rock art. By combining historical records with modern techniques, the study not only verified the new finding but also advocated for more comprehensive future surveys—both to uncover hidden carvings and to generate richer datasets for archaeological research. The approach demonstrates how cross-disciplinary collaboration can bridge gaps in long-standing documentation efforts.
Female agency in BA Scandinavia as represented in rock art - rethinking the mourning woman in Vitlycke, Tanum.
Rock art from the Nordic Bronze Age reveals significant insights into female agency and social structures. Analyzing 3,372 anthropomorphic figures in Sweden and Norway, researchers found that sexual differences, bodily features, and objects depicted in carvings reflect complex social realities of the period. A notable focus is on the 'mourning woman' motif at Vitlycke, Tanum, which challenges traditional interpretations by highlighting female roles beyond passive mourning. The study applies frameworks like Amartya Sen's capability approach and gender theory to interpret these visual representations, suggesting that rock art offers a nuanced window into Bronze Age Scandinavian society.
Giving the Past a Future: Essays in Archaeology and Rock Art Studies in Honour of Dr. Phil. h.c. Gerhard Milstreu
A collection of scholarly essays celebrates Dr. Gerhard Milstreu's 40-year contribution to rock art research and documentation, highlighting his pioneering work in promoting the significance of images in archaeology, fostering international collaboration, and engaging the public with prehistoric art. The volume brings together contributions from Europe, addressing themes such as rock art interpretation, technological advancements in recording, and public involvement. It reflects Milstreu's emphasis on giving the past a future by encouraging interdisciplinary dialogue and mentoring the next generation of researchers.
‘Changing of the Guards’
Heritage management's traditional approach to cultural preservation, exemplified by the rock carvings at Tanum in Sweden, prioritizes public accessibility and participation while adhering to a strict epistemological standpoint on authenticity. This perspective values cultural heritage solely based on its historical significance, influencing how these sites are handled, staged, presented, and preserved. The study highlights ethical considerations in heritage management, particularly the relationship between managers and the public, as well as the balance between preservation and accessibility.
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