From early neanderthals to modern-day humans, we've come a long way from the dawn of civilization. People haven't only developed emotionally and intellectually, but our facial structures have also changed. When you look in the mirror, the face that you see is the result of millions of years of evolution. That's what inspired Swedish sculptor and archaeologist Oscar Nilsson to hand-sculpt a series of faces using excavated bones as a reference.
The reconstruction sculptures show people throughout history, and give us fascinating insight into how those people looked at the time. Using a combination of scientific research and artistic skill, Nilsson based every sculpture on real bone remains he found during archaeological excavations. Each incredibly realistic sculpture reveals a fantastic amount of detail, such as bone structure, facial hair, and wrinkles.
In one piece, Nilsson recreated the bust of a young Greek girl that lived 9,000 years ago, during the Mesolithic era. Featuring a protruding jaw and a scowling expression, her stunning appearance gives some insight into what life was like at the tough time she lived. Her strong jaw is thought to be caused by chewing on animal skin to make it into soft leather, which is a common practice among people of that era.
With help from a group of specialized craftsmen and scientists, Nilsson provides his historical people sculptures to museums worldwide. Find out even more about his fascinating work on his website.
Oscar Nilsson: Website | Facebook | Instagram
Huarmey Queen
Adelasius Elbachus, VIII century AD
Estrid Sigfastsdotter, XI century AD
A young woman who lived during the Stone Age about 5,500 years ago
British man from the Saxon era
Birger Jarl, ruler of Sweden from 1248 until his death on October 1, 1266
Neanderthal woman
Swedish viking, XI century
British man from the Iron Age
A teenage girl from the Mesolithic era
Woman of Romano-British descent
A man who lived about 3,700 years ago during the Bronze Age
Medievil man, 1470-1630
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