Hidden Layers of a 30,000-Year-Old Icon
The Venus of Willendorf, a 11-centimeter-tall figurine discovered in Austria in 1908, has been a source of fascination for scientists for decades. Now, a new study using micro-CT scanning has revealed a shocking secret about the ancient treasure.
Journey Across the Alps: The Origin of the Oolite
Previous research suggested that the Venus of Willendorf was carved in northern Italy and somehow traveled hundreds of kilometers to Austria. However, the CT scan has revealed that the oolite stone used to sculpt the figurine originated from Lake Garda in northern Italy. This discovery implies that the statue, or the raw material, was transported from south to north across the Alps, a journey of up to 730 kilometers.
More Than Just a Statue: A Testament to Ancient Belief
The journey itself, fraught with danger and hardship, highlights the importance of the Venus of Willendorf. The painstaking effort to transport this artifact suggests that it held immense religious or cultural significance for its creators.
A Complex Composition: Unveiling the Internal Structure
The micro-CT scan revealed the intricate internal structure of the oolite stone. It consists of multiple layers of sediment with varying densities and sizes, along with traces of limonite, a mineral not found within a 200-kilometer radius of the discovery site.
Unraveling a Mystery: The Venus of Willendorf's True Value
The Venus of Willendorf, previously thought to be a simple depiction of fertility, has now been shown to be a complex object with a fascinating history. The meticulous transportation, the chosen material, and the intricate internal structure all point to the statue's profound cultural and religious significance in ancient times.
Summary:
The Venus of Willendorf, a 30,000-year-old figurine, has been a source of fascination for scientists. A new study using micro-CT scanning revealed that the oolite stone used to sculpt the figurine originated from Lake Garda in northern Italy. This discovery implies that the statue, or the raw material, was transported across the Alps, a journey of up to 730 kilometers. The meticulous transportation suggests that the Venus of Willendorf held immense religious or cultural significance for its creators. The micro-CT scan also revealed the intricate internal structure of the oolite stone, further adding to the complexity and importance of this ancient treasure.