3D printing reconstructs face of a woman of the Bronze Age

With the help of modern technologies, the face of a woman who died 4000 years ago was reconstructed. The undertaking succeeded through a combination of 3D printing and plastic modeling.

The so-called “Upper Largie Woman” was discovered in Scotland in 1997. A CT scan was made of her skull so that it could be three-dimensionally printed. Forensic artist Oscar Nilsson then used plasticine to model the soft tissues.

The reconstruction shows the woman with dark braids and fur-trimmed clothing. Analysis suggests that she was part of the Bell Beaker culture, which spread across Europe from 2400 BC.

According to archaeologists, thanks to 3D printing and modern forensics, such reconstructions provide a realistic glimpse into the faces of our ancestors. The more technology advances, the more detailed it will be possible to analyze finds and bring historical persons to life.

Image: Oscar Nilsson