Paranthropus robustus and leopard jaw C015 / 6933
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Science Photo Library
Paranthropus robustus and leopard jaw C015 / 6933
Paranthropus robustus skull (SK-54) and leopard jaw (SK-349). These fossils date from around 1.5 million years ago. SK-54 is the skull-cap from a child australopithecine, found in 1949 in Swartkrans, South Africa. SK-349 is from the same location. Two indentations (centre right) in the skull-caps parietal bone match the spacing (aligned here) of the canines in the leopards lower jaw (mandible). The hypothesis advanced in 1970 (revised 1981) by South African palaeontologist Charles Kimberlin Brain is that the child was seized by the leopard from a sleeping site at the entrance to the cave where the fossils were discovered
Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations
Media ID 9216489
© JAVIER TRUEBA/MSF/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Africa African Anthropology Canine Canines Child Evolutionary Extinct Fossil Fossil Man Hominid Hominin Human Evolution Human Fossil Killed Leopard Mammal Museum Palaeoanthropological Palaeoanthropology Palaeolithic Paleoanthropological Paleoanthropology Paleolithic Panthera Pardus Paranthropus Robustus Pleistocene Predation Predator Prehistoric Prehistory Prey South Africa South African Specimen Stone Age Teeth Theory Cutouts Palaeontology Robust Australopithecine Skull Cap Skullcap
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases the fascinating connection between Paranthropus robustus and a leopard, dating back 1.5 million years ago. The image features the skull of a child australopithecine, known as SK-54, discovered in Swartkrans, South Africa in 1949. Alongside it is the jaw of a leopard (SK-349), also found at the same location. What makes this photograph truly remarkable are the two indentations on the parietal bone of SK-54 that perfectly align with the spacing of canines in the leopard's lower jaw. This intriguing observation led South African palaeontologist Charles Kimberlin Brain to propose an extraordinary hypothesis in 1970 (revised in 1981). He suggested that this child was seized by a leopard from its sleeping site near the cave entrance where these fossils were unearthed. The black background enhances both specimens' details and creates an aura of mystery surrounding their encounter millions of years ago. It serves as a reminder that nature has always been filled with complex relationships and interactions. This print not only captures an awe-inspiring moment frozen in time but also sheds light on our evolutionary history and provides valuable insights into predation patterns during prehistoric times. It stands as a testament to human curiosity and our continuous quest for knowledge about our past.
MADE IN THE USA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.