Homo Neanderthal Skull La Chapelle-aux-Saints replica, The Old Man of La Chapelle reconstruction

Reconstructed Skull Replica of Homo neanderthalensis La Chapelle-aux-Saints ("The Old Man of La Chapelle")
Description - Materials and Manufacturing:
3D-printed from durable plastic using a detailed digital scan of the original skull discovered in 1908 in France. The model preserves all anatomical features and pathologies of the original specimen, including traces of arthritis and dental resorption. Hand-painted to accurately reproduce the fossil's color and texture.
Dimensions:
Full-size, life-scale replica:
223 mm (L) × 150 mm (W) × 170 mm (H) /
8.78" (L) × 5.91" (W) × 6.69" (H)
Jaw:
Detachable lower jaw for detailed examination of dentition and pathologies.
Anthropological Significance:
Dating: ~60,000-47,000 years ago
Discovered: 1908, La Chapelle-aux-Saints cave (France)
Importance:

• Reference specimen of "classic" Western European Neanderthals
• Brain capacity ~1600 cm³ (exceeds the modern human average)
• First evidence of care for elderly group members (long-term survival with severe pathologies)

Features:
Anatomical Characteristics:

• Massive brow ridges
• Projecting midface
• Low cranial vault
• Absence of chin

Pathologies:

• Loss of most teeth with signs of healing
• Severe osteoarthritis in cervical vertebrae
• Deformations in shoulder and hip joints

Evolutionary Implications:

• Refutes early myths about Neanderthal "primitiveness"
• Evidence of complex social behavior

Applications:

• Study of Neanderthal anthropology
• Comparative analysis with Homo sapiens
• Educational resource for universities and museums
• Collectible paleoanthropological replicas

Additional notes:

1. The replica maintains scientific accuracy in all anatomical details
2. Ideal for both academic study and museum displays
3. Represents a landmark specimen in human evolution studies
4. Demonstrates advanced Neanderthal social structures through pathological evidence