Joseph Prestwichs Somme human antiquity

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Joseph Prestwichs Somme human antiquity

Plate from " Theoretical considerations on () the drift deposits containing the remains of extinct mammalia and flint implements", 1864. Phil. Trans Roy Soc 154. Jospeph Prestwich was a geologist specialising in hydrogeology, famous for his work confirming the antiquity of man. In 1859 he followed a lead by Hugh Falconer that it was worth checking the claims of Boucher de Perthes that the Somme gravels contained human artefacts in place with an extinct megafauna. With friend John Evans he found and photographed handaxes in situ in the gravels and presented his detailed work to the Royal Society. The work fairly rapidly won acceptance (though the details and exact dates of the tools long remained unknown). In 1863 the influential geologist Sir Charles Lyell published his book on Human Antiquity supporting the case for a long human chronology. This is the definitive early remains site map

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Media ID 6319199

© This image is Paul D. Stewart 2009. Do not reproduce without permission of the photographer at Stewartpauld@aol.com

Acheulian Archaeology Biface Boucher De Perthes Falconer Flood France French Geologist Hand Axe Heidelbergensis Homo Human Antiquity Mammoth Neanderthal Pre History Stone Tools Stratigraphy Abbeville Evans Flint Implements

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EDITORS COMMENTS
The print captures a significant moment in the field of geology and archaeology, showcasing Joseph Prestwich's groundbreaking work on human antiquity. Taken from his publication "Theoretical considerations on the drift deposits containing the remains of extinct mammalia and flint implements" in 1864, this plate from Phil. Trans Roy Soc 154 provides a visual representation of Prestwich's findings. Joseph Prestwich was an esteemed geologist specializing in hydrogeology, renowned for confirming the ancient origins of mankind. In collaboration with John Evans, he embarked on a mission to investigate claims made by Boucher de Perthes regarding human artifacts found alongside extinct megafauna in Somme gravels. Their discovery and subsequent photographic documentation of handaxes within these gravels were presented to the Royal Society, leading to widespread acceptance and support for their research. This illustration showcases not only the intricate stratigraphy but also highlights key archaeological sites such as Abbeville and Kents Cavern. The presence of Homo species like Neanderthal and Heidelbergensis further emphasizes the significance of these findings. Paul D. Stewart's artistry brings this historical moment to life through meticulous attention to detail, allowing viewers to immerse themselves in a world where humans coexisted with mammoths thousands of years ago. This image serves as a testament to Prestwich's pioneering contributions that reshaped our understanding of prehistory while solidifying his status as one of history's most influential geologists.

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