Recent research has shed light on a fascinating aspect of daily life among ancient hunter-gatherer societies in Central Europe. A study conducted by biological anthropologist John Willman reveals that the peculiar wear patterns observed on the teeth of Pavlovian people, who lived between 25,000 and 29,000 years ago, may be linked to the use of labrets—ornamental piercings inserted into the lower lip or cheek area. This finding not only uncovers a unique cultural practice but also prompts a reevaluation of how social identity was expressed in prehistoric communities.
Most artifacts from hunter-gatherer societies have been lost to time, leaving archaeologists with limited insights into their daily lives. Willman’s investigation focused on the dental wear of these ancient Europeans, which was notably different from what is typically seen in modern populations.
The study highlights that labrets, a term derived from the Latin word for "lip," can cause teeth to shift position over time, functioning similarly to "reverse" braces. Willman notes, "There was a long history of discussion of the strange wear on the canines and cheek teeth of these individuals." His research suggests that this tooth wear correlates strongly with belonging to a specific group within Pavlovian society.
April Nowell, a Paleolithic archaeologist who specializes in the study of Ice Age adolescents, expressed enthusiasm for the findings. "As someone who studies Ice Age adolescents, I find this study very exciting," she stated. Nowell believes that the implications of this research extend beyond mere physical alterations; they offer insights into personal and social identities in ancient times.
The use of labrets is well documented across various cultures, both ancient and modern. However, no artifacts identified explicitly as labrets have been discovered in Pavlovian burials. This absence may be attributed to the materials used in their creation, which likely consisted of perishable substances. Despite this lack of physical evidence, Willman’s study provides compelling hypotheses regarding their use and significance.
Notably, the variation in dental wear patterns appears to relate not only to group identity but also to individual experiences. Willman posits that "having labrets seems to be related to belonging to the group." He elaborates further by suggesting that the decision to adopt labrets may involve personal milestones: "It may relate to individual choice, different life experiences that 'earn' labrets during life, like going through puberty or marriage."
The research was published in the Journal of Paleolithic Archaeology and has sparked interest among scholars eager to explore prehistoric social dynamics. Nowell emphasizes the broader implications of studying such ancient practices: "It offers a window onto a long disappeared behavior — it gives scientists a way of studying personal and social identity as they change throughout a person's life."
The findings from Willman's study encourage archaeologists to reconsider existing collections of artifacts from Pavlovian and other Ice Age sites. With much still to learn about these ancient communities, the examination of dental wear and ornamental practices could provide valuable insights into their cultural identities.
