Ötzi the Iceman's wardrobe analyzed: furs from multiple animal species
A study led by Professor Niall O'Sullivan of the Institute for Mummies and the Iceman in Italy and University College Dublin has examined the clothing and quiver of Ötzi, the 5,300-year-old mummy discovered in 1991 on the Similaun glacier at the border between Italy and Austria. Published in Scientific Reports, the research reveals that his garments and quiver were made from the hides of at least six or seven different animal species. The quiver was crafted from a wild species, possibly roe deer, while the jacket was sewn from domesticated goat and sheep skins. The coat alone combined hides from at least four animals of two different species. Ötzi, a male from the Copper Age (3300–3100 BCE), has been extensively studied for stomach contents and blood composition, but this is the first in-depth analysis of his wardrobe.
Key facts
- Ötzi was discovered in 1991 on the Similaun glacier at the border between Italy and Austria.
- He dates from between 3300 and 3100 BCE (Copper Age).
- The study was led by Professor Niall O'Sullivan.
- O'Sullivan is affiliated with the Institute for Mummies and the Iceman in Italy and University College Dublin.
- The research was published in Scientific Reports.
- Ötzi's clothing and quiver were made from at least six or seven animal species.
- The quiver was likely made from roe deer hide.
- The jacket was made from domesticated goat and sheep skins.
- The coat used hides from at least four animals of two species.
Entities
Institutions
- Institute for Mummies and the Iceman in Italy
- University College Dublin
- Scientific Reports
Locations
- Similaun glacier
- Italy
- Austria
- Alps