60,000-year-old ostrich eggshell engravings reveal a surprisingly sophisticated human mind
 { path { fill: %23EEEFE9 } })
Archaeological analysis of 60,000-year-old ostrich eggshell fragments from southern Africa reveals complex geometric patterns. The findings suggest that early Homo sapiens possessed advanced cognitive abilities for visual planning and abstract thought.
Why it matters
This discovery provides significant evidence regarding the evolution of human intelligence and the early development of symbolic culture.
Published 12 hours ago • loading... • Updated 4 hours ago Show Less Icon 60,000-year-old ostrich eggshell engravings reveal a surprisingly sophisticated human mind Researchers said more than 80% of the engravings follow consistent geometric rules, suggesting deliberate visual planning by early Homo sapiens. Summary by Science Daily More than 60,000 years ago, humans in southern Africa were engraving ostrich eggshells with intricate geometric patterns that appear far more organized than previously realized. Researchers found recurring grids, parallel lines, right angles, and repeated shapes, suggesting the designs followed deliberate rules rather than being improvised. The engravers may even have planned entire patterns in their minds before carving them.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in