Neanderthals, an extinct human species, inhabited Eurasia for hundreds of thousands of years, adapting to various environments, including periods of extreme cold. This article explores what is currently known about Neanderthal clothing, from the subtle clues left behind to the likely materials and methods they employed.
Uncovering Evidence
Scientists infer the existence and nature of Neanderthal clothing primarily through archaeological findings. Stone tools provide significant clues, particularly those identified as scrapers and awls. Scrapers, often made from flint, exhibit wear patterns consistent with processing animal hides, suggesting their use in removing flesh and fat from skins. Awls, pointed tools, indicate potential use for piercing holes in hides, a necessary step for sewing.
The presence of specific animal remains at Neanderthal sites also supports the clothing hypothesis. Excavations frequently uncover bones of fur-bearing animals, such as reindeer, woolly mammoths, and various bears and wolves, in higher proportions than expected for food consumption alone. This suggests these animals were hunted, at least in part, for their pelts. Microscopic analysis of tool residues on some stone tools shows traces of collagen and fat, direct evidence of animal hide processing.
Materials and Resources
Neanderthals likely utilized the hides and furs of animals prevalent in their cold environments for clothing. Their hunting practices provided access to large mammals, including reindeer, which offered durable and insulating hides. Woolly mammoths were also a potential source of thick, warm pelts. The remains of bears and wolves at Neanderthal sites suggest their furs could have been used for warmth.
The selection of animal materials depended on local availability and desired insulating properties. While animal hides formed the primary material, the potential use of plant fibers is less certain. Direct evidence for plant-based textiles is extremely rare due to their poor preservation over long periods.
Crafting Garments
The processes for making Neanderthal clothing began with skinning hunted animals. This initial step required precise cutting tools to separate the hide from the carcass. Following skinning, hides would have undergone a scraping process to remove flesh, fat, and membranes. This cleaning was performed using stone scrapers, ensuring the hide was pliable and free of decay-promoting organic matter.
Softening the leather likely involved physical manipulation such as stretching, rubbing, or even chewing to break down fibers. Awls identified in archaeological contexts suggest that Neanderthals could pierce holes in these prepared hides. These holes would have allowed for the lacing or sewing together of multiple pieces, perhaps using sinew or thin strips of leather as thread. Given the tools and materials, their garments were likely simple designs, such as basic wraps, capes, or tunics, providing functional coverage and warmth.
Function and Necessity
Neanderthals needed clothing for environmental adaptation, particularly during the Ice Age. Living in cold climates necessitated insulation against frigid temperatures, snow, and ice. Animal hides and furs provided an effective barrier, trapping body heat and protecting against hypothermia. Clothing also offered protection from harsh elements like biting winds and driving rain or snow.
Beyond thermal insulation, clothing provided physical protection. It could guard against minor injuries, abrasions, and insect bites encountered during daily activities like hunting and foraging. This practical necessity allowed them to extend their foraging range and maintain body temperature in challenging habitats.