The Head of a Neolithic Dog Reconstructed by Forensic Experts

A bond that goes back thousands of years

Our relationship with dogs is much longer and more complex than we can imagine. Allies, defenders, working companions, family... the truth is they have adapted to almost everything over thousands of years, living and dying alongside us. In 1901, an excavation in the funerary chamber of Cuween Hill discovered the bodies of eight humans, and 24 dog skulls, ritually buried. The organization Historic Environment Scotland requested the forensic reconstruction of one of those skulls, and a couple of days ago they shared the result.

How were pets in the past? How close was the relationship with their owners? We know that our desire to photograph, dress up, and adore cats without any particular reason dates back at least to the early 20th century, but I'm referring to more remote times. In the specific case of dogs, their usefulness as herders, hunters, and protectors has been (and still is) unquestionable. However, there are also strong indications that some dogs were part of the family, and even held a more powerful symbolic value. That brings us to the Cuween Hill funerary chamber in the Orkney Islands (Scotland). An excavation in 1901 discovered there a total of eight human bodies, and 24 dog skulls, which suggests a very special relationship existed there. In an attempt to learn more, Historic Environment Scotland commissioned the forensic reconstruction of a canine skull.

The forensic reconstruction

The process began with the creation of a digital model. The Diagnostic Imaging Service of the School of Veterinary Studies at the University of Edinburgh performed a CT scan on the skull, resulting in a 3D print. From that structure, forensic artist Amy Thornton developed muscles, skin, and hair, applying the same techniques she would use on a human head. Of course, this creates new challenges, because the availability of data on muscle depth is scarcer in canines than in humans. The main suggestion from the experts was that the sculpture have fur similar to that of the gray wolf. Today we can enjoy the final result, while the original skull returned to the collection of the National Museums of Scotland.

What kind of dog was it?

Now... what dog is it? The hypothesis suggests features of Collie and gray wolf, although there is no modern relative to make a more solid comparison. In other words, the reconstruction is the best science can offer us right now, with a dose of artistic freedom. Anyway, I think it turned out quite well. What do you think?

Official announcement: Click here