Ancient Clay Beads Reveal Children's Fingerprints from 15,000 Years Ago in Israel
Archaeologists have identified children's fingerprints preserved on clay beads dating back 15,000 years, found in what is now Israel. A recent study indicates that Natufian communities employed clay for symbolic purposes much earlier than researchers had previously believed. The discovery provides evidence of early human artistic expression and material culture.
Key facts
- Clay beads with children's fingerprints were discovered in present-day Israel
- The artifacts are approximately 15,000 years old
- Natufian groups created the beads
- The find suggests earlier use of clay for symbolic purposes than previously thought
- A new study documents the discovery
Entities
Locations
- Israel