Neanderthals Used Ochre Symbolically in Crimea
Ochre use dates back 400,000 years in Europe and Africa.
16 ochre pieces analyzed using scanning electron microscopy and XRF.
Yellow ochre crayon found 42,000 years old.
Broken crayon 70,000 years old found in the site.
Study challenges Neanderthal stereotypes, showing symbolic cognition.
Artifacts suggest uses like marking skin or clothing.
1 week ago