Researchers from the Hebrew University in Jerusalem (Israel) uncovered that the ancient human ancestors deliberately crafted spheres from stones. The findings were reported in the journal Royal Society Open Science.
In 1959, archaeologists uncovered an ancient settlement in northern Israel, identified as Ubeidiya, associated with Homo erectus. This site functioned as a corridor during the migration from Africa to Eurasia about 1.4 million years ago.
Around six hundred spheres made of flint, basalt, and limestone were found at the site. For decades, scholars debated their purpose. Some suggested the spheres were incidental byproducts of stone tool production, while others argued they were formed with intention.
A new study demonstrates that the spheres were shaped deliberately by early humans. The researchers conducted a 3D analysis of 150 scans of the artifacts, enabling reconstruction of the progression of mechanical impacts that shaped the stones into spheres.
“The result is striking. Early round stones were actively transformed using a preplanned processing sequence. This work required notable skill and a clear vision of the final form. It is evident that people understood the specific shape they aimed to achieve,” stated the study authors.
Experts contend that the finding prompts a reconsideration of early hominid cognitive capabilities. It appears Homo erectus possessed a sense of symmetry and sought to realize it in stone, though the precise motivation remains unknown.
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