Researchers in Iran have unearthed what is believed to be the earliest known specimen of human-used lip color. Within a carved stone vessel, they found remnants of material strikingly similar to modern lipstick pigments.
The analysis conducted on the substance inside this tubular stone artifact revealed chemical compounds that align closely with contemporary lip paint. Scientists interpret this as possibly the oldest documented use of lip coloring by our species.
This revelation portrays a society with significant metallurgical and chemical expertise, necessary to compose such cosmetic enhancements.
According to a report by archaeologists led by Nasir Eskandari from the University of Tehran, the deep red cosmetic material may have been applied as lip paint, “probably the earliest so far analytically reported,” marking an expansion in our understanding of early cosmetic practices spanning the Chalcolithic to Bronze Age era.
Cosmetic use has a vast historical context; we’ve found evidence of kohl as an ancient eyeliner, with roots extending back several millennia. Moreover, formulations for early forms of cosmetics such as eyeshadow, and foundation have been recovered from civilizations in ancient Egypt, the Near East, and parts of Asia.
While ample discoveries about ancient facial cosmetics exist, details regarding the origins and preparation of lip pigments remained vague until the unearthing of this tiny artifact with major implications.
Massimo Vidale, an archaeologist at the University of Padua in Italy, commented to Smithsonian Magazine that the ancient lipstick’s significance was previously overlooked because it was seen as a ‘secondary women’s matter.’ He notes that it actually represented a “costly expression of luxury,” with implications for social dynamics within early city hierarchies.
The artifact, found in southeastern Iran following a flood in 2001, is cut from greenish chlorite and matches other items from the Marḫaši culture. However, its peculiar size and form prompted a deeper investigation.
Scientists studying the dark purple powder within applied various analytical methods. They concluded that minimal soil contamination occurred. They dated the find to the early 2nd millennium BCE, and the composition—mainly hematite—suggested a deliberate red pigmentation. Additional components included quartz, clinochlore, braunite, manganite, and the kohl component, galena. Interestingly, they also detected vegetable waxes and oils, akin to substances used in modern lipsticks, with negligible lead content.
The artifact’s characteristics suggest it could have been easily held while applying the pigment with an applicator in the other hand. Unfortunately, the lack of a burial context limits our understanding to which social group or individual it could be associated.
Even with these limitations, the cosmetic artifact reveals much about the society that created it. Vidale concludes that the sophistication of the lip paint indicates a “very advanced knowledge” of compounds by artisans of the time and underscores the possibility of cosmetics being used not only for personal adornment but in social and ceremonial contexts.
Their findings have been detailed in the journal Scientific Reports.
FAQ Section:
What is the significance of the ancient lipstick discovery?
The discovery suggests that early civilizations possessed advanced knowledge in creating cosmetics, specifically pigments for lip coloring that share similarities with modern lipstick. It also provides insights into the sophistication of beauty and social practices around 4,000 years ago.
How old is the ancient lipstick?
Based on scientific analysis, the ancient lipstick dates back to the early 2nd millennium BCE, making it approximately 4,000 years old.
What were the main components of the ancient lipstick?
The dominant component was hematite, a mineral that can produce a rich red powder when ground. The lipstick also contained ingredients like vegetable waxes and oils similar to those found in modern cosmetics. The proportions of lead-based minerals were found to be minimal.
Where was the ancient lipstick found?
The artifact was discovered in southeastern Iran after a flood exposed several Chalcolithic graveyards in the year 2001.
How do researchers know the artifact was used for lip coloring?
Researchers analyzed the size, shape, and chemical content of the stone container. The presence of hematite and other minerals, along with the shape of the container that is suitable for holding pigment, strongly suggest its use as lip paint.
Conclusion:
The discovery of this ancient tube of lipstick not only marks a significant leap in our understanding of early human practices involving cosmetics but also underscores the advances in metallurgy and chemistry dating back thousands of years. This find not only enriches our historical perspective on beauty and adornment but also helps us appreciate the complexities of ancient societies and their cultural expressions. With discussions centering on personal identity and social standing, this artifact sheds light on the significant role cosmetics played in ancient cultures, far beyond mere aesthetics.