CARVES

Coordinators: Louise Decq (KIK-IRPA, Polychrome Artefacts Lab) and Emmanuelle Mercier (KIK-IRPA, Polychrome Wood Sculpture Studio)

Partners: Sophie Balace and Emile Van Binnebeke (RMFAB), Gontran Sonet and Quentin Goffette (RBINS), and Riccardo Pizzinato (University of Texas Rio Grande Valley)

BELSPO Programme Manager: Helena Calvo del Castillo

Description: The CARVES project focuses on the Genoelselderen diptych, an exceptional ivory object preserved at the Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium (RMFAB). Engraved traces on the reverse reveal the presence of earlier Roman motifs and bear witness to a history of reuse and transformation. Used successively as tabulae, a book cover, and an element of altar decoration, this object tells several centuries of history in its own right. By combining scientific analyses with archival research, the project traces its journey—from tusk to museum. The project also promotes exchanges with the scientific community and dialogue with the public.

Keywords: reuse; material history; scientific analyses; public engagement.