In a groundbreaking archaeological discovery, researchers have unearthed what is believed to be the world’s oldest eyeliner from the ruins of a prehistoric city in Turkey. This finding not only pushes back the timeline of cosmetic use by millennia but also offers a fascinating glimpse into the beauty practices of our ancient ancestors.
A glimpse into prehistoric glamour
The artifact in question is a kohl stick, a type of eyeliner that remains popular today. Found in the ancient settlement of Yeşilova Höyük in western Turkey, this remarkable piece of history has survived for over 8,200 years, with its tip still bearing traces of black pigment.
Lead archaeologist Zafer Derin, speaking to the Daily Mail, emphasized the universal appeal of kohl throughout history:
“For centuries, kohl has been worn by individuals of all genders, statuses, and socioeconomic levels.”
The oldest known example
The discovery of this ancient cosmetic tool in Yeşilova Höyük is particularly significant as it represents the oldest known example of its kind. Dr. Derin explains:
“The kohl stick found in Yeşilova Höyük is the oldest known example. This may show how much the first Aegean women living in Yeşilova were fond of their beauty.”
The kohl stick was unearthed from a Neolithic layer dating back 8,200 years, in the Turkish city of Izmir.
While the primary function of kohl in modern times is cosmetic, its use in ancient civilizations may have been more multifaceted. Dr. Derin suggests:
“Yet its use may not have been purely cosmetic. As it is known from many written texts, paintings, and sculptures in ancient Egypt, kohl was mainly used for the treatment of eye diseases rather than an aesthetic function.”
He adds, “It was also thought to reduce the brightness of the sun by applying it thickly around the eyes.”
Craftsmanship and composition
The ancient kohl stick, measuring approximately 10 cm in length and 1 cm in thickness, showcases the craftsmanship of the Yeşilova Höyük people. Dr. Derin describes it as “very well smoothed and shaped into a sharp pen.”
Made from green serpentine stone, the stick’s tip bears traces of a black substance, believed to be manganese oxide—a common component of kohl. The pigment is currently being analyzed to confirm its composition.
A window into ancient beauty practices
This discovery not only confirms the use of cosmetics over 8,000 years ago but also provides valuable insights into the beauty standards and practices of ancient civilizations. As archaeologists continue to unearth artifacts from our distant past, we gain a deeper understanding of the shared human desire for self-expression and adornment that transcends time and culture.
The ancient kohl stick from Yeşilova Höyük stands as a testament to the enduring nature of beauty rituals and their significance in human society throughout history.