Publications
Collection Storage: A Window into the Richness of Cultural Heritage.
Gaël de Guichen's pioneering work in preventive conservation has redefined the role of museum storage rooms, transforming them into optimal environments for preserving unexhibited collections. His concept, developed during his tenure at ICCROM, emphasizes that these spaces should not only protect artifacts but also facilitate their study and public display. The RE-ORG method, a standard he established, revolutionized collection storage practices globally. This interview sheds light on the evolution of his ideas and their broader impact on cultural heritage preservation, highlighting how strategic storage can safeguard humanity's tangible past while making it accessible to future generations.
Variability and sampling strategy of cave wall concretion: Case study of the moonmilk found in Leye Cave (Dordogne)
A study of moonmilk deposits in Leye Cave, part of the UNESCO-listed Prehistoric Sites and Decorated Caves of the Vézère Valley, reveals that despite significant macroscopic diversity, these calcite formations exhibit low variability at a microscopic scale. This insight is crucial for optimizing sampling strategies in ornate caves where moonmilk poses a threat to cave art conservation. The research used scanning electron microscopy (SEM) on 24 samples from a single moonmilk strip, providing the first detailed investigation of its chemical composition and morphological structures over a few meters. The findings suggest that targeted micro-sampling can effectively characterize moonmilk without extensive macroscopic variability affecting results.
From Chauvet to Lascaux: 15,000 Years of Cave Art
A comprehensive analysis of Upper Paleolithic cave art reveals significant shifts in symbolic language, animal representation, and spatial layout over 15,000 years, linking Chauvet (36 ka BP) to Lascaux (21 ka BP). The study identifies two distinct occupation periods at Chauvet—Aurignacian (37–33.5 ka BP) with black zoomorphic paintings—and traces evolutionary patterns in artistic expression amid glacial environments. Unlike Lascaux, which suffered from tourist-induced microclimate disruption and is now closed, Chauvet offers pristine examples of early Western European art. The research underscores the socio-cultural behavior of Homo sapiens during this era, providing insights into their adaptive strategies and symbolic development.
Photons and electrons for the study of a white veil covering some walls in prehistoric caves
A white concretion, partially covering walls in prehistoric caves within the UNESCO-listed Vézère Valley, has been structurally and chemically characterized using advanced techniques. The study identified two primary calcium carbonate facies: moonmilk and coralloids. This research marks a significant step toward understanding the formation of unexpected layers on cave walls, which could provide insights into the environmental conditions and chronology of these sites. Future work aims to explore the climatic factors influencing these formations over long periods.
The Cave and the Horizon (Chapter 1)
Archaeological evidence from the Vézère Valley, France, reveals that early humans—both Neanderthals and Homo sapiens—developed sophisticated artificial shelters as far back as 30,000 years ago. Contrary to the common stereotype of primitive life centered around cave entrances or savanna hunting, these findings demonstrate a remarkable adaptability in utilizing local resources to construct complex architectural designs tailored to climatic conditions. The study challenges conventional narratives by highlighting the ingenuity and resourcefulness of prehistoric humans, showcasing their ability to innovate beyond natural shelters like caves or rock overhangs.
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