Top 10 Oldest Known Human Artifacts

This ancient pottery dates back to around 2500 BCE in present-day Pakistan. The distinctive style of Harappa pottery features bold geometric patterns and red or black glazes applied using a combination of sand and clay. Analysis of over 1,500 pieces found that this type of pottery was produced by multiple communities across the Indus Valley Civilization. Excavations at Harappa revealed that these artisans used simple tools made from stone, wood, and bone to shape their wares. The creation of such intricate designs showcases the ingenuity of the people who lived in the region during that era. This style is distinct from other ancient pottery forms found globally.

Discovered in Austria around 1908, this small statue is estimated to be approximately 25-30 thousand years old, dating it back to the Upper Paleolithic period. The figurine measures about 11 centimeters (4.3 inches) tall and depicts a woman's torso with exaggerated physical attributes. Research indicates that the Venus of Willendorf was likely created by early hunter-gatherer women as an artistic representation or ceremonial object. Analysis reveals the statue is made from small fragments of volcanic rock, bound together using clay. The uniqueness of this artifact highlights its possible symbolic significance in ancient human culture.

This 4th-century Roman glass cup is one of the oldest surviving examples of colored glass in Europe and contains a rich history that showcases mastery over early glass-making techniques. Dating back to between 280-300 CE, it features intertwined floral patterns with red, gold, and green hues that shift when viewed from different angles due to thin layers of glass applied differently. The cup consists of several layers, including clear and colored ones, which is a clue about the advanced understanding of the properties of glass during Roman times. Although much of its history remains shrouded in mystery, it's known the Lycurgus Cup was part of Roman Roman Emperor Diocletian's collection.

Located in Montignac, France, these Upper Paleolithic paintings are estimated to have been created around 17,000 years ago during a period known for the 'Magdalenian culture.' The cave displays vivid depictions of animals such as horses, mammoths, bison, and even humans. Analysis shows that the pigments used were made from hematite (iron oxide), carbonates (from shellfish shells or bones), and silicates (from minerals). Each artwork took considerable time to create, possibly by a group effort, with each layer applied in thinness and allowing for drying before adding layers on top.

This collection of ancient life-sized terracotta soldiers was created around 210 BCE during the Qin dynasty in China. It's believed that thousands more were made initially but only a fraction remain today due to natural decay, intentional disposal by later rulers or wars. Each soldier is unique with slight variations but their uniform designs suggest that these might have been mass-produced labor for special occasions, possibly part of ceremonies honoring deceased emperors and ancestors.

Located in southern Peru, the Nazca Lines are extensive etched geoglyphs which can only be viewed from a considerable distance or by flying over it, first observed around 1927 by local farmers who called them 'Nazca'. Created by the Nazca culture between 500 BCE and 600 CE, these lines include designs of animals like monkeys, birds, snakes, plants, and abstract shapes. Analysis shows they were made using simple tools from stones and that their size varied greatly. Each design is believed to have a specific spiritual significance or story behind them.

This ancient ship was found off the Turkish coast in 1982 and dates back around 3,000 years ago during the copper age of Anatolia. The wreckage contained more than 200 artifacts like gold jewelry, obsidian tools, and even horses' bones and wooden objects showcasing an important maritime trade route at that time. Archaeologists are particularly intrigued by a piece discovered known as the 'Copper Hoard' featuring high-quality bronze tools which show a sophistication in tool-making techniques prevalent during the Middle Bronze Age.

Discovered in 1949, this ancient Sarmatian tomb contains the best-preserved golden burial set of an individual dating to around 300 BCE. It includes gilded leather armor, elaborate gold jewelry, including a gilded silver-hilted sword, ornate goblets, and golden vessels filled with perfumes and other treasures. These pieces highlight the immense importance and wealth associated with burials during the ancient Scythian period.

Dating back to around 550 BCE in present-day Turkey, this famous mosaic from the ancient city of Sardis is considered one of the earliest surviving mosaics in Europe. It shows a vivid scene of hunting lions with golden colors and intricate details applied using small fragments of stone or glass. This artwork represents an advanced understanding of color and craftsmanship among the Lydians and reflects their significant position during ancient Greek and Roman interactions.

These ancient seals, discovered around 1920-1930 in present-day Pakistan and India, are among the oldest known examples of metalworking in Asia dating back to about 2500 BCE. Craftsmen used different materials like copper, bronze, or terracotta, with more sophisticated techniques applied to intricate designs, often depicting animals, plants, or mythical creatures. The seal's significance reflects both their functional use as authenticating documents and their artistic value showcasing unique cultural expressions of the Indus Valley Civilization.