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The face of an ancient druid from Lewis has been recreated, 1600 years after she died.

The wax reconstruction depicts a toothless female, nicknamed ‘Hilda.’

Dundee University student, Karen Fleming, built up features on a 3D model of the woman’s head.

The original skull skull - said to have been found “outside Stornoway” - is held at the Edinburgh University.

The female is believed to have been well into her 60s when she died during the Iron Age - double the typical lifespan for that era.

Karen Fleming, an MSc Forensic Art & Facial Identification student, says Hilda displays many physical attributes that remain recognisable today.

Karen said: “Hilda was a fascinating character to recreate. It’s clear from the skull she was toothless before she died, which isn’t too surprising considering the diet of folk back then but it was impressive how long she lived.

“A female’s life expectancy at this time was roughly 31 years but it is now thought that living longer during the Iron Age is indicative of a privileged background.

“It’s impossible to know for sure when she died as we were unable to carbon date the skull, but assuming the information in the journal from 1833 is correct, Hilda passed away anytime between 55BC to 400AD and was of Celtic origin.

“I think she looks like many older women I’ve met in my life and I’m proud of that.”

Painstakingly reproducing features in wax, Karen said this year’s heatwave almost melted Hilda before she had been brought back to life.

“It’s funny to say it now but I had to keep parts of Hilda, like her wax modelled ears, in the fridge for most of the summer.

“As a mature student who commutes from Edinburgh, I often had to keep her cool in the car, strapped up in the passenger seat. I’m sure that’s a sight passers-by won’t forget seeing.”

Hilda will go on display at Dundee University’s Masters Show which opens on Friday.

 

Face of ancient Stornoway druid recreated 1,600 years after her death

14 August 2019

University of Dundee

University of Dundee