Possible visual impacts of double perforated ivory beads found in the Swabian Aurignacian

Double perforated ivory beads (DPIBs) represent an essentialelement of personal ornaments in the Swabian Aurignacian,notable for their small size, unique shape, and the two perforations.Despite their prevalence, the way in which they wereworn as beads remains uncertain. This study investigatesthe methods of assembly of DPIBs through the analysis of 74archaeological specimens from Hohle Fels Cave, Alb-Donau-Kreis District, experimental replication, and online researchinto modern beadwork techniques. The findings indicate thatstringing, rather than sewing, is the most plausible methodof use in accordance with observed wear patterns. Experimentaland modern beadwork suggest that DPIBs couldhave formed complex three-dimensional beadwork structures,serving both decorative and practical roles. This studyhighlights the sophistication of early symbolic expressionand craftsmanship, emphasising the potential of combiningarchaeological analysis with experimental approaches andmodern beadwork to understand Palaeolithic visual culture.