Homo naledi "Neo" Skull Replica – Professional EditionProduct Description & Manufacturing Technology Anatomically precise 3D replica of the groundbreaking Homo naledi "Neo" skull, fabricated from museum-grade PLA plastic using high-resolution scans of the original fossil from the Rising Star Cave system (South Africa). Hand-finished with mineral-based pigments to replicate the authentic fossil’s patina and surface texture. Technical Specifications
Scale: 1:1 life-sized reproduction
Dimensions: 210 mm (L) × 125 mm (W) × 130 mm (H) /
8.27" (L) × 4.92" (W) × 5.12" (H)
Weight: ~450 g (varies by material density)
Key Features
Monolithic design (non-detachable mandible for structural integrity)
Scientific accuracy: Includes even taphonomic marks and sutural details from the original specimen
Educational focus: Highlights the species’ paradoxical blend of primitive (small cranial capacity) and derived traits (modern dentition)
Anthropological Significance
Discovery Context: Excavated 2013–2014 in the Dinaledi Chamber, Rising Star Cave
Dating Range: 236–335 kya (U-series and ESR methods)
Brain Capacity: 460–610 cm³ (comparable to Australopithecus)
Taxonomic Debate: Potential case of insular dwarfism or late-surviving archaic lineage
Morphological Highlights
Gracile neurocranium with reduced supraorbital tori
Dental arcade: Modern morphology despite small brain size
Occipital profile: Sloping with moderate nuchal cresting
Applications Academic Use:
Comparative hominin anatomy courses
Evolutionary biology demonstrations
Research:
Morphometric analysis (compatible with caliper measurements)
Museum Display:
Public education about human origins
Collector’s Item:
Limited-edition scientific replica
Design Element:
Striking conversation piece for offices/labs
Why Choose This Replica?
Peer-reviewed accuracy: Based on published scans from the original discovery team
Durability: Impact-resistant material suitable for handling
Ethical sourcing: No castings from original fossils
