Facial Reconstruction of Teenage Girl Buried 1,300 Years Ago Reveals What the Elite Looked Like; Findings Suggests That She was Likely an Early Anglo-Saxon Christian Convert

A recent facial reconstruction shows what the "elite" from the 7th century would have looked like. In this case, the skeleton belonged to a 16-year-old girl buried 1,300 years ago surrounded by treasure.

Burial Settings Reveal Possible 'Elite' Christian Convert Origin

According to Live Science, the skeleton used for the facial reconstruction was of a 16-year-old girl buried 1,300 years ago. The Trumpington Cross, an ornate gold cross with rubies, surrounded her as she lay on a carved wooden bed.

The skeleton was first discovered in 2011 by archaeologists in England. They confirmed that it belonged to an Anglo-Saxon girl and that she was just 16 years old. Based on how she was buried and the surrounding treasure, it was deducted that she came from the 7th century.

Archaeologists also believed her to be an early Christian convert. The discovery of her skeleton didn't end the quest to understand more about her origins as new facial reconstruction reveals her potential appearance, as noted by Live Science. Those interested can view the reconstruction and gold cross, which are now in the "Beneath Our Feet" free exhibit.

The exhibit can be seen at the University of Cambridge's Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology.

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Creation of the Girl's Facial Reconstruction

Scottish forensic artist Hew Morris created the facial reconstruction through the girl's high-resolution skull images and close-up photos. To give tonality to the facial reconstruction, the artist used tissue-depth data for Caucasian women, according to the University of Cambridge.

Morris commented on the final output. He said the skull was in "remarkable condition" given its age. The statement, given in response to Live Science via email, highlights the damages in the cranium's right-side temporal area but was not a hindrance to the facial recognition construction.

Live Science adds that the forensic artist pointed out his take on the girl's eyes, pointing out how the right eye socket was slightly more elevated than the left. This would've been a unique characteristic that others could've noticed.

The University of Cambridge scientists also analyzed the teenagers' bones and teeth through isotopic analysis. This led them to conclude that she came from the German Alps before moving to England at around 7 years old.

The scientists also learned about her dietary changes, as highlighted by Live Science. It was revealed that upon arriving in England, her protein intake saw a slight but significant decrease.

Sam Leggett, who is now a research fellow at the University of Edinburgh and participating scientist in the analysis, commented on how the teenager might have been unwell as she traveled far into unfamiliar territory.

The teenager's burial represents one of the 18 burial beds located in England, all of which had female remains. Leggett suggested that this was also because of how important she could've been.