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Model of the skull of Piltdown Man (Eanothropus dawsoni), 1914. Artist: Dr Smith Woodward
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Model of the skull of Piltdown Man (Eanothropus dawsoni), 1914. Artist: Dr Smith Woodward
Model of the skull of Piltdown Man (Eanothropus dawsoni), 1914. Model as reconstructed by Dr Smith Woodward. Dark areas are from the original fossil, the light are the restored areas. Most of the lower jaw is restored on the far side. This supposed fossil was discovered near Lewes, Sussex, in 1912 by Charles Dawson, a local solicitor and amateur archaeologist. Postulated to be a missing link in human evolution, in 1954 it was proved to be a hoax, a human cranium skilfully connected to the jaw of an orang-utan. From Scientific American, 7 November 1914
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Media ID 14846234
© Ann Ronan Picture Library / Heritage-Images
Anatomy Biology Bone Charles Darwin Charles Robert Cranium Darwin Evolution Fossil Hoax Human Jawbone Orang Outang Orang Utan Orangutan Paleontology Skull Woodward Ann Ronan Pictures
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases the model of the skull of Piltdown Man, also known as Eoanthropus dawsoni, created by Dr Smith Woodward in 1914. The artist meticulously reconstructed this model, with dark areas representing the original fossil and light areas indicating restored sections. Notably, most of the lower jaw on one side has been recreated. Discovered near Lewes, Sussex in 1912 by Charles Dawson, an amateur archaeologist and local solicitor, this supposed fossil was initially believed to be a crucial missing link in human evolution. However, it was later exposed as an elaborate hoax in 1954 when it was revealed that a human cranium had been skillfully combined with an orangutan's jawbone. The photograph captures not only the intricate details of this fraudulent creation but also serves as a reminder of how scientific discoveries can sometimes be clouded by deception. It symbolizes both the excitement surrounding new findings and the importance of critical analysis within scientific research. Intriguingly framed against a monochrome backdrop, this image evokes curiosity about our understanding of evolution and raises questions about authenticity in archaeological studies. It stands as a testament to humanity's continuous quest for knowledge while reminding us to approach scientific claims with skepticism until thoroughly scrutinized. Overall, this print offers viewers a glimpse into a significant moment in history where science unraveled an elaborate ruse disguised within bone fragments—a stark reminder that even our most trusted beliefs can sometimes be built upon falsehoods.
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