Glimpse into prehistory: Face of ancient human reconstructed after 16,000 years

In a remarkable scientific achievement, researchers have successfully reconstructed the face of a prehistoric human who lived approximately 16,000 years ago.

The reconstruction was made possible by a well-preserved skull found in Yahuai Cave, located in the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region of southern China. This breakthrough provides a rare glimpse into the appearance of ancient people from the region during the late Stone Age, according to Greek media.

The skull was discovered during archaeological excavations conducted between 2015 and 2018 at Yahuai Cave, situated on a hill in Bolang Village, Longan County. Experts believe this is the only complete human skull from that era ever found in the region, making it a significant find for researchers.

“The study of this skull is crucial for advancing our understanding of the physical characteristics of early humans in southern China,” said Xie Guangmao, a researcher with the Guangxi Institute of Cultural Relics Protection and Archaeology. “It also helps answer important questions about prehistoric migration and cultural exchanges.”

Xie emphasized that the fossil provides an invaluable opportunity to explore ancient burial practices and track the movement and interaction of early humans in the region.

In 2023, a team of researchers from China and the United Kingdom used advanced 3D modeling software to reconstruct the face. The group, which included experts from Guangxi Normal University, Beijing Normal University, the Chinese Academy of Sciences, and Alder Hey Children’s Hospital in the UK, found that the skull was larger than those of modern females but smaller than those of males.

The reconstructed face, featuring a high forehead, narrow eyes, a flat nose, and full lips, closely resembled that of a modern female skull, though with some notable differences. This study, published in the Journal of Archaeological Science, offers valuable insights into the evolution of facial features in East Asia.

Guangxi, historically a key area for human migration, is thought to have played an important role in early human movement. Scientists believe the Yahuai Cave skull could provide critical information about migration patterns and cultural exchanges in the region.

By Naila Huseynova