New research suggests that the practice of intentionally preserving human remains through smoke-drying is far older and more widespread than previously believed. A study of remains from China, Vietnam, and Indonesia indicates this method was used as early as 10,000 years ago – predating known mummification practices in cultures like ancient Egypt and the Chinchorro culture of northern Chile.
Ancient Preservation Techniques
Researchers analyzed 54 pre-Neolithic burials across 11 sites, dating from 3,600 to 11,000 years ago. Using techniques like X-ray diffraction and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, they determined that 80 percent of the remains had been subjected to low-temperature heating over extended periods, resulting in mummification.
The study, conducted by researchers from institutions including the Australian National University and Peking University, builds on observations of similar practices among Indigenous people in Papua Province, Indonesia, where bodies were traditionally smoked for one to two months.
Connections to Early Migrations
Professor Emeritus Hirofumi Matsumura of Sapporo Medical University, the study’s corresponding author, noted that excavated remains often exhibit crouched positions. He likewise observed cranial similarities between the skulls and those of indigenous Papuans, including pronounced brow ridges. This suggests a possible connection to the migration patterns of hunter-gatherer groups originating in Africa.
Evidence of “flexed and squatting burials” was also found on the Korean Peninsula. Matsumura theorizes that the practice of smoking bodies developed in response to the high humidity levels prevalent throughout Asia.
Frequently Asked Questions
How old are the oldest remains discovered in this study?
Some of the remains analyzed date back more than 10,000 years.
In which countries were the remains discovered?
Remains were discovered in China, Vietnam, and Indonesia.
What percentage of the remains showed evidence of being intentionally preserved?
80 percent of the remains analyzed showed evidence of having been heated for long periods, resulting in mummification.
What does this discovery tell us about the beliefs of early humans?
