Computed Tomography as a Tool for Archiving Ethnomusicological Objects

Musical instruments in ethnological collections can be a challenge for museums. Objects with uncertain provenance or doubtful circumstances of acquisition are considered to be repatriated. Some objects consist of sensitive material like human remains and are therefore bound to ethical guidelines for exhibition. On the example of a Tibetan damaru, a drum made of two human skulls, the provenance of the object and ethical considerations are discussed. For the case of repatriation 3D computed tomography is presented as a powerful examination and archiving method. Furthermore, virtual presentation and research concepts as well as other museum applications of 3D data of musical instruments are considered.